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Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I claim benefits?Beta*

Finding a home and applying
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Private renting in England since the Renters' Rights Act 2025, unless the question says otherwise. General information, not legal advice.

Not in England any more. Since 1 May 2026 it has been unlawful for a landlord or letting agent to refuse you, or to put you off applying, because you receive benefits or have children. That covers adverts saying "No DSS" or "no benefits" and agents who simply won't book a viewing once they hear you claim Universal Credit. Councils can fine a landlord or agent up to £7,000. A landlord can still check you can afford the rent, but they must look at you as an individual rather than ruling out everyone on benefits. Keep screenshots of the advert or messages and report it to your council's private housing or trading standards team. Shelter publishes a complaint letter you can send.

On this site: Template letters

Sources: Shelter: Renters' Rights Act changes for private tenantsShelter: discrimination complaint letters

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Savvy Renter — savvyrenter.co.uk · free tools for renters. Answers checked 15 October 2026. The full list is also published as faq.json.
* Beta: new page, not yet reviewed by a housing adviser. General information, not legal advice.