The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) has once again called for unscrupulous letting agents and landlords to either raise their professional standards or leave the industry, as tenant demand increases for rental property.

Demand is predicted to remain far higher than supply this year, with the deficit being particularly pronounced in London and the South-East according to Ian Potter MD of ARLA.

"This increased demand will put quality and standards under a greater spotlight. This year, it will be time for unscrupulous agents and landlord to put up or shut up. Consumers are rightly calling for much higher standards in the private rented sector. We are seeing demand for licensed ARLA agents grow amongst tenants and landlords alike."

Potter also pointed out that there is unlikely to be a slowdown in rent levels across the country over the next twelve months.

He added: "When it comes to rent levels, as long as the shortage of housing stock continues, it is unlikely that there will be any relief on rising rents throughout 2013.

"Indeed, in urban areas the demand for single-person occupancies may well continue throughout 2013, which will increase the existing pressure on high-demand properties and areas."