Landlords could enjoy increased tenant demand and rental yields if they work together to dispel the myth that rented accommodation is second best to owning property, it has been claimed.

The National Landlords Association (NLA) said that there are a number of reasons why tenants may not want to buy and live in their own home, and that renting a decent, affordable property should not be considered a step down.

David Salusbury, chairman of the NLA, explained that government figures suggest 81 per cent of tenants are on good terms with their landlords, adding: "Rented housing should not be seen as second-best."

Responding to a select committee report into the supply of rented housing, he expressed concern that proper recognition is not being given to the importance of local authorities in the tackling of rogue landlords.

"Where people are suffering at the hands of irresponsible rogue landlords in sub-standard rental accommodation, local authorities should be using the existing statutory powers they have in order to force the necessary improvements to be made," Mr Salusbury added.

An independent study from Paragon revealed recently that tenant demand for private rented properties grew in April, with the average age of tenants rising to 32.8, from 31.0 at the beginning of 2007.