The joint venture is Keepmoat’s first deal in the build to rent sector with more deals expected.

The partnership will deliver homes in the North-west, Yorkshire, the Midlands and north London, with 1,000 construction starts expected over the next 12 months.

The homes will be delivered largely on land owned and acquired by Keepmoat. The housebuilder will also design, plan and build the projects.

Sigma will lead on the lettings and investment management.

Keepmoat chief executive Dave Sheridan said: “Sigma came to us because of our national capability, our great quality product and our efficient supply chain that delivers great value for money.

“In 2015 we built over 4,000 homes and our aim is to increase our housing growth by 25 per cent year on year going forwards.”

Sigma is also working in partnership Countryside Properties to deliver homes for rent in the West Midlands.