Introduction
Many people in the UK worry that they might be turned away by landlords simply because they receive benefits such as Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. This is a common concern, especially as more households rely on financial support to help cover the cost of rent. The fear of being rejected can make searching for a new home stressful and uncertain.
Landlords sometimes have their own reasons for preferring tenants who are not on benefits. These reasons can include worries about rent payments, restrictions from mortgage lenders or insurance companies, or simply personal preference. However, refusing to rent to someone solely because they claim benefits can raise questions about fairness and legality.
This page explains your legal rights if you are refused a property due to being on benefits. We will look at the protections you have, what counts as discrimination, and what you can do if you think you have been treated unfairly. You will also find practical advice on how to approach landlords and what steps to take if you face barriers.
Understanding this issue is part of a wider conversation about discrimination in the private rental market. For more on this broader topic, see our guide on Discrimination When Applying to Rent. If you want to learn how to spot and challenge unfair treatment, especially when it relates to financial support or housing benefits, our article on Know Your Rights: How to Spot and Challenge Rental Discrimination is a helpful next step.
Can a Landlord Reject You for Being on Benefits?
It is legal for a landlord to reject a tenant simply because they receive benefits. In the UK, receiving benefits – such as Universal Credit or Housing Benefit – is not a “protected characteristic” under the Equality Act 2010. Protected characteristics include things like race, disability, sex, age, and religion. This means that, by law, landlords can choose not to rent to someone based solely on the fact that they are on benefits, without breaking discrimination laws.
Many landlords look at financial stability when deciding who to rent to. They want to be sure that tenants can pay the rent on time and keep up with other costs. Some landlords worry that benefit payments might be delayed or that there could be extra paperwork involved. Others may have mortgage or insurance conditions that prevent them from renting to tenants who receive benefits.
You might come across landlords or letting agents who have a “no DSS” or “no benefits” policy. While this can feel unfair, it is not considered illegal discrimination unless it is linked to a protected characteristic. For example, if a landlord refuses to rent to you because you are disabled and receive benefits as a result, this could be unlawful. But if the refusal is simply because of your benefit status, the law does not currently protect you.
It’s important to understand the difference between legal and unfair discrimination. Legal discrimination means making choices based on factors that are not protected by law – like whether someone receives benefits. Unfair discrimination, on the other hand, is when someone is treated differently because of a protected characteristic, which is against the law.
If you feel you’ve been treated unfairly, or if you’re not sure whether a landlord’s decision is legal, it can help to learn more about your rights and how to challenge rental discrimination. For more detailed advice, see our guide on Financial Support and Housing Benefits.
Legal Protections Against Discrimination When Renting
The Equality Act 2010 protects people from discrimination in many areas of life, including renting a home. Under this law, it is illegal for landlords or letting agents to treat someone unfairly because of certain “protected characteristics.” These include your race, sex, disability, religion or belief, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity, and being married or in a civil partnership.
If a landlord refuses to rent to you because of one of these protected characteristics, this is unlawful discrimination. Sometimes, landlords may try to hide discrimination by giving another reason – such as saying they do not accept tenants on benefits. However, if the real reason is your protected characteristic, or if their policy disproportionately affects people with a protected characteristic (for example, disabled people are more likely to claim benefits), this could still be unlawful.
It’s important to note that being on benefits alone is not a protected characteristic under the Equality Act. Landlords can legally choose not to rent to people on benefits, unless this policy amounts to indirect discrimination against a protected group. For example, if a “no DSS” policy particularly disadvantages women, disabled people, or another protected group, it may be challenged as indirect discrimination.
To understand more about which characteristics are protected and how discrimination can happen when applying for a tenancy, see our guide on Protected Characteristics: Discrimination When Applying to Rent. You can also read practical advice on how to spot and challenge rental discrimination if you think you’ve been treated unfairly.
For more detailed legal guidance, the government’s Equality Act 2010: guidance – GOV.UK explains your rights and what counts as discrimination. Shelter also provides clear examples of direct and indirect discrimination in housing, which can help you recognise if a landlord’s actions are unlawful.
How Landlords Assess Tenants on Benefits
When you apply to rent a property, landlords usually carry out several checks before offering you a tenancy. These checks help them decide if you are likely to pay the rent on time and take good care of the property. Understanding what landlords look for – and how your benefits status might affect their decision – can help you prepare and respond if you face any issues.
Common Checks Landlords Carry Out
Most landlords follow a standard process when assessing potential tenants. This often includes:
- Credit checks: Landlords or letting agents look at your credit history to see if you have a record of paying bills and debts on time. A poor credit score might raise concerns, but it is not always a barrier to renting.
- References: You may be asked for references from previous landlords or employers. These help show that you are a reliable tenant and have a stable background.
- Proof of income: Landlords want to be sure you can afford the rent. They may ask for payslips, bank statements, or evidence of other income, such as benefits.
For a detailed look at the typical application process, including what documents you might need, see How Landlords Assess Rental Applications.
Using Benefits as Proof of Income
If you receive Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or other state support, you can use your benefits award letter as proof of income. Many landlords accept benefits as part of your income, especially if the total amount meets or exceeds the rent.
However, some landlords worry that benefits payments can be delayed or changed, making them less certain about regular rent payments. This concern can sometimes make it harder for people on benefits to secure a tenancy, even if they have a good track record.
Guarantors and Rent Payment Schemes
If a landlord is unsure about your ability to pay rent, they may ask for a guarantor. A guarantor is someone – often a family member or close friend – who agrees to pay the rent if you cannot. Having a guarantor can reassure landlords and improve your chances of being accepted.
Some councils and charities offer rent deposit or rent guarantee schemes to help people on benefits secure private rentals. These schemes can act as a safety net and provide landlords with extra assurance.
Legal Protection Against Blanket Bans
It is important to know that landlords must not automatically reject applicants just because they are on benefits. Blanket bans, such as advertising properties as “No DSS” or “No Benefits,” have been found to be discriminatory by UK courts. If you meet the landlord’s other criteria – such as passing credit checks and providing references – your benefits status alone should not be a reason for refusal.
If you want to understand more about tenant referencing and what landlords look for, the National Residential Landlords Association offers helpful guidance on the process: Tenant Referencing for Landlords | NRLA.
By knowing your rights and being prepared with the right documents, you can improve your chances of finding a suitable home, even if you receive benefits.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Discriminated Against
If you believe a landlord or letting agent has treated you unfairly because you receive benefits, it’s important to take action. Here’s what you can do to protect your rights and help prevent discrimination against others in similar situations.
1. Gather Evidence
Start by collecting any evidence that shows you may have been discriminated against. This could include:
- Emails or messages where the landlord says they don’t accept tenants on benefits.
- Adverts stating “No DSS,” “no benefits,” or similar wording.
- Notes from phone conversations, including dates, times, and who you spoke to.
- Details of any differences in treatment compared to other applicants.
If you think discrimination is also linked to a protected characteristic, such as disability, race, or being a single parent, make a note of this too.
2. Raise the Issue with the Landlord or Agent
Contact the landlord or letting agent to explain your concerns. Sometimes, discrimination happens because of misunderstanding or outdated policies. Ask them to clarify their reasons for refusing your application in writing. If you feel comfortable, let them know that refusing tenants solely because they receive benefits may be unlawful, especially if it’s connected to a protected characteristic.
3. Seek Independent Advice
If the issue isn’t resolved, get advice from a trusted source. Organisations like Citizens Advice offer clear information on how to identify and report discrimination in housing, along with practical steps you can take. You can also contact your local council’s housing department, who may be able to help if you’re at risk of homelessness or need support with your housing situation.
4. Make a Formal Complaint
If informal discussions don’t work, you can make a formal complaint to the letting agent’s redress scheme or the landlord’s professional body, if they are a member. Be sure to include all your evidence and a clear timeline of what happened.
5. Consider Legal Action
If you believe your rights under the Equality Act 2010 have been breached, you may be able to take legal action. This could involve making a claim in the county court. Legal aid may be available if you’re on a low income, and some housing charities can provide free or low-cost legal advice.
6. Report Discrimination
Reporting discrimination helps improve the system for everyone. Even if you decide not to take legal action, sharing your experience with organisations that monitor housing practices can lead to wider changes. For more detailed guidance on your options, see our page on What to Do if You Face Rental Discrimination.
Taking these steps not only helps you but also supports fair treatment for all renters. Don’t hesitate to seek help – there are organisations and resources available to support you.
Support and Housing Options for People on Benefits
If you receive benefits, you still have a range of housing options and support services available. Understanding what’s out there can help you find a safe and suitable place to live, even if you face challenges in the private rental market.
Supported and Specialist Housing
There are many types of supported and specialist housing designed for people on benefits or with specific needs. This includes accommodation with extra support for older people, those with disabilities, mental health conditions, or people recovering from addiction. These housing schemes often provide on-site staff, help with daily living, or tailored services to help residents maintain their tenancy.
How Benefits Can Help with Rent
Both Housing Benefit and Universal Credit are designed to help people on low incomes pay their rent. If you qualify, these benefits can cover part or all of your rent, depending on your circumstances. Universal Credit has a specific housing element for this purpose. For more details on what support is available and how to apply, visit the official guidance on housing costs and Universal Credit.
You can also read more about help with paying rent, your rights, and where to get support, including information on eligibility and how benefits interact with different types of tenancies.
Council Housing and When Councils Must Help
Local councils have a duty to help people who are homeless or at risk of losing their home. This includes assessing your situation and, in some cases, providing temporary or permanent accommodation. If you meet certain criteria – such as being vulnerable, having children, or facing domestic abuse – the council may have a legal responsibility to rehouse you. Find out more about when the council must rehouse you and the main housing duty.
Emergency and Refuge Housing
If you are in urgent need, such as escaping domestic abuse, emergency housing and refuges are available. These offer a safe place to stay while you get support and plan your next steps. Specialist services can help you access this type of accommodation – learn more about refuge housing for domestic abuse.
Where to Find Help and Support
If you’re struggling to find housing or facing discrimination because you receive benefits, there are organisations and charities that can help. Your local council’s housing department is a good starting point. You can also contact Citizens Advice, Shelter, or specialist local support services for advice on your rights, the application process, and what to do if you’re refused accommodation.
Remember, you are not alone – support is available to help you secure a safe and stable home.
Other Related Discrimination Issues When Renting
Renting a property can bring up several discrimination issues beyond being on benefits. For example, some landlords may be reluctant to rent to families with children. This kind of treatment can also be unlawful in certain situations, and it’s important to know your rights if you face it. If you want to learn more about how discrimination laws protect families, see our guide on Can a Landlord Reject You for Having Children?
Discrimination in renting can also relate to other factors, such as race, disability, gender, or age. Understanding your legal protections is essential. For a broader look at your rights and how to recognise unfair treatment, visit our page on How to Spot and Challenge Rental Discrimination. This resource covers the basics of what counts as discrimination and what you can do if you believe a landlord is treating you unfairly.
If you’re unsure about your situation or need help taking action, Contend’s AI Legal Assistant is here to support you. You can get clear, personalised answers about your rights as a tenant, guidance on what steps to take if you suspect discrimination, and even help drafting letters or documents to challenge unfair treatment. Whatever your concern, Contend can help you feel more confident and informed as you navigate renting.
