England: Renters' Rights Act bans discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children

Housing minister Matthew Pennycook answered a written parliamentary question on compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and the Renters' Rights Act in the private rented sector. He said the Renters' Rights Act gives local authorities investigatory and enforcement powers to tackle rental discrimination in England.

He said the Act covers overt practices, such as No DSS adverts, and also indirect practices that make it harder for someone to rent because they have children or receive benefits. Government guidance gives examples: restricting access to information about the property, making it difficult to arrange a viewing, or offering tenancy terms that put a tenant at a disadvantage.

The report states that breaching these rules can lead to a fine of up to £7,000. Pennycook also said the government is funding local housing authorities to take on their new enforcement responsibilities under the Act.

This applies to landlords and letting agents in England. It affects how you advertise a property, how you handle viewing requests, and any terms you offer once someone applies to rent.

It applies whatever the size of your portfolio, and whether you manage properties yourself or through an agent.

• Review any adverts or listing wording to remove blanket exclusions based on benefits status
• Check your viewing process does not create unreasonable barriers for applicants with children or on benefits
• Review tenancy terms and any standard conditions to make sure they don't disadvantage these groups
• Check with a solicitor if you're unsure whether a specific practice or clause could be read as indirect discrimination