The data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed no let up in the surging costs faced by renters since 2022.
It reported a leap of 9% over the 12 months to February in a provisional estimate, up from the 8.5% annual rate seen in January.
The ONS said average UK house prices decreased 0.6% in the 12 months to January, to £282,000, noting an easing in the pace of decline.
