Build to rent

What is Build to Rent?

Build to Rent (often shortened to BTR), or Built for Renters, is an industry term for homes that have been built or designed specifically to be rented out, rather than sold. On Rightmove, we call these Built for Renters homes – because that’s exactly what they are.

Most Build to Rent homes are apartments within a single development, managed by one landlord or professional management company. Unlike traditional private rentals, they’re not sold off individually, which means tenants usually deal with the same landlord and management team for the whole time they live there.

You’ll often find that Build to Rent homes are newly built or recently completed, similar in look and finish to new‑build homes for sale – but designed with renting in mind.

How are Build to Rent homes different to other rentals?

The biggest difference is that Build to Rent developments are designed specifically for renting out to tenants. This is in contrast with more traditional rental properties, which might be a flat within a block that’s home to a mix of renters and live-in owners. Or a house that’s rented out to tenants by a private landlord.

A Build to Rent property often means:

• A single, professional landlord across the whole building
• On‑site or dedicated management teams
• Homes designed to be lived in (not just turned over quickly between tenants)

Because they’re designed for renters, many communities also include shared spaces and services you wouldn’t usually find in a standard rental block.

What facilities and services do Build to Rent developments offer?

Facilities vary by development, but many Build to Rent schemes include extras designed to make day‑to‑day life easier.

You might find things like:

• On‑site gyms or fitness studios
• Co‑working or study spaces
• Communal lounges or social areas
• Concierge or parcel‑handling services
• Dedicated maintenance and repair teams

Some developments also offer optional paid‑for services, such as cleaning or laundry, so it’s always worth checking what’s included in the rent – and what’s not.

Tip: If you’re viewing a Build to Rent home, ask for a full list of amenities and services so you know exactly what you’ll have access to.

Can you get longer tenancies in Build to Rent homes?

A longer-term rental tenancy was previously one of the big selling points of a BTR home, often having tenancies of 3 years for longer term security. However, under the Renters’ Rights Act, fixed term tenancies, or Assured Shorthold Tenancies, have been scrapped.

Which means that all rental tenancies now operate on a rolling basis, including Build to Rent tenancies.

What are the main benefits of living in a Build to Rent home?

Build to Rent won’t be right for everyone, but it can work well if you’re after a more managed renting experience.

Common benefits include:

• Clear communication with on‑site or dedicated management teams
• Quick repairs and maintenance, usually handled in‑house
• Shared amenities that would be costly to access elsewhere
• A stronger community feel, especially in larger developments

Just like any other landlord, Build to Rent providers must belong to a recognised ombudsman scheme and have a formal complaints process in place.

Are there any downsides to Build to Rent?

While Build to Rent offers plenty of perks, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Rents can be higher in some developments, especially where lots of amenities are included
• You’ll usually have less flexibility to negotiate individual terms
• Most homes are apartments, so there may be fewer options if you’re looking for a house

Comparing a Build to Rent home with more traditional rentals in the same area can help you decide what offers the best value for you.

How to find Build to Rent homes on Rightmove

On Rightmove, Build to Rent properties are labelled as Built for Renters in rental search results.

When browsing listings, you can:

• Look for the Built for Renters badge
• Read the listing carefully to see what amenities and services are included

Is Build to Rent right for you?

Build to Rent can be a great option if you value convenience, longer‑term security and a professionally managed home. If flexibility, lower rent or a wider choice of property types is more important, a traditional private rental may suit you better.

As with any move, the key is weighing up cost, location, tenancy terms and lifestyle before making a decision.

Ready to start looking? Search for rental homes on Rightmove and explore whether a Built for Renters development could work for you.

FAQs

• Are Build to Rent homes more expensive than other rentals?

  Not always, but they can be. Rents may be higher in some developments because of on‑site amenities, professional management and shared facilities. That’s why it’s worth comparing total costs (including what’s included in the rent) with more traditional rentals nearby.

• Does the Renters’ Rights Act apply to Build to Rent (Built for Renters) homes?

  Yes. The Renters’ Rights Act applies to Build to Rent homes in the same way it applies to other private rented homes. Living in a Built for Renters property doesn’t change your core rights as a renter – landlords still have to follow the same laws, protections and standards.

  It’s still important to check your tenancy agreement so you understand how things like rent reviews and notice periods work in practice.

• Are Build to Rent homes pet friendly?

  Under the Renters’ Rights Act, all renters will have the right to request a pet when they move into a rental home, or if they want to get a pet while they’re living in the property. The same rules apply when renting with pets in BTR homes: your landlord will need a valid reason for refusal.

• Do you have the same rights as a renter in a Build to Rent home?

  Yes. Living in a Build to Rent property doesn’t reduce your legal rights as a renter. Landlords must follow the same rules, belong to a recognised ombudsman scheme and have a formal complaints process in place. You’ll also be protected by the same Renters’ Rights rules, which came into force on 1 May 2026.

• Who handles repairs and maintenance in Build to Rent homes?

  Repairs are usually handled by an on‑site or dedicated maintenance team, which can mean faster fixes and less hassle for renters. Check how to report issues and expected response times before moving in.

• Are there any Build to Rent homes near me?

  Most Build to Rent homes are found in cities, with the highest concentration in London and Manchester.