Private tenants across Powys are being invited to raise concerns about housing affordability, property conditions and rental insecurity through a new council-backed forum.

Powys County Council has established the Private Tenants Forum following a survey highlighting the difficulties faced by people renting privately.

The survey received 30 responses, including 24 from current private tenants, with participants identifying concerns about housing costs, limited property availability and long-term security.

Respondents reported difficulties finding suitable homes, with high rents, deposits and advance payments creating financial barriers for those seeking accommodation.

Other concerns included property maintenance, repairs, energy efficiency and landlord standards.

Some participants also highlighted the impact of short-term holiday accommodation on the availability of properties for permanent residents.

The council hopes its new forum will help tenants access reliable information about their rights, share experiences and influence improvements in the private rented sector.

It could also provide a collective voice for people who feel uncomfortable raising concerns individually.

Councillor Matthew Dorrance, Powys County Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for a Fairer Powys, welcomed the initiative.

He said the survey had demonstrated the pressures facing some private tenants and the importance of ensuring their concerns were heard.

"The private rented sector is a significant provider of housing in Powys, so it is important that tenants are heard," he said.

The forum's first meeting will take place online through Microsoft Teams on Thursday, 29 October, between 5pm and 6pm.

Attendees will be invited to discuss the survey findings, learn about available advice and help determine how the forum should operate.

The initiative complements the council's existing Landlords Forum, which works with property owners, housing specialists and Rent Smart Wales.

Private tenants wishing to attend can register through the Powys County Council website.