By Charlotte Beugge

Britain is fast becoming a nation of reluctant landlords as more homeowners have to let their homes out because they just can't sell them, according to research from the Association of Residential Lettings Agents (Arla).

In the third quarter of 2011, nearly half (47%) of its member agents surveyed reported a rise in the number of "unplanned" lettings. This figure has risen from 40% at the beginning of the year.

The trend was particularly noticeable in the north-east and north-west where in both areas around two-thirds of those properties were being let out because owners couldn't sell.

Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales also reported around 60% of those homes coming to the rental market in the same quarter were reluctant lets. But in central London, just 17% of the homes being rented out privately were let because their owners couldn't sell.

Arla president Tim Hyatt says: "While we are, of course, happy to see an increase in the number of landlords, it is vital that every landlord - reluctant or keen - seeks expert advice before embarking on a rental arrangement."

The most likely types of homes being rented by homeowners forced by circumstance into being landlords are detached and semi-detached houses, while least likely are studio flats.

If you do have to let your home out, remember it is essential that you tell both your home insurer and your lender. Your home cover will certainly need changing and as your mortgage lender has your home as its security it may change your mortgage to reflect the changing risk it is taking.