Seven in 10 private landlords are classed as either part-time or amateur, according to new data released by the National Landlords association, a body that represents 1.4 million landlords in the UK.
Amateur landlords are classed as those who consider their rental income as supplementary to their day job earnings, and accidental landlords - those who may have inherited property or let their home out due to circumstance.
The data also shows that 27% of landlords have been letting properties for less than five years and 14% for less than two.
This data has resulted in the NLA reminding landlords of their obligations towards their tenants. Richard Lambert, Chief Executive Officer, NLA, said: "These findings tell us that a significant proportion of landlords have only been in business for a relatively short period of time. Even the most seasoned of landlords experience problems, so it is crucial that anyone new to the industry is aware of their obligations and understands that being a landlord involves much more than simply purchasing a property.
"Landlords should make sure they educate themselves as to what is expected of them, legally and professionally, especially if they plan to manage the properties themselves. Not knowing your obligations as a landlord could result in serious problems, financial as well as legal. A tenant should be safe and comfortable in their home and ignorance is no excuse.
"In order to ensure good standards in the sector, anyone who is thinking of becoming a landlord should do their research first and make sure they continually keep up-to-date with legislation and good standards of practice. As the leading landlord association, landlords can rely on us as a source of valuable information and advice".