Enhanced Protection Against Discrimination for Tenants, 2025

1. Prohibition of Discrimination Based on Benefits

Landlords and letting agents are explicitly prohibited from discriminating against tenants who receive:

• Universal Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Disability benefits
• Other forms of state support

This means landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone solely because they receive benefits, a practice often referred to as “No DSS” discrimination 

2. Prohibition of Discrimination Based on Familial Status

The bill reinforces protections for families by:

• Banning discrimination against tenants with children under 18
• Ensuring that familial status is not used as a reason to deny rental applications 

3. Broader Anti-Discrimination Measures

The legislation aligns with the Equality Act 2010, ensuring that tenants are protected from discrimination based on:

• Race
• Gender
• Disability
• Religion
• Sexual orientation
• Age
• Marital or civil partnership status 

1. Equal Opportunity

These reforms aim to create a level playing field in the rental market, ensuring that all tenants—regardless of income source or family structure—have equal access to housing.

2. Inclusivity and Diversity

By removing discriminatory barriers, the bill promotes a more inclusive rental environment, encouraging landlords to consider a wider range of applicants and fostering diverse communities 

1. Legal Recourse for Tenants

Tenants who believe they’ve been discriminated against can:

• File complaints with the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
• Seek redress through civil courts
• Report violations to local authorities, who now have enhanced enforcement powers 

2. Landlord Obligations and Penalties

Landlords must:

• Comply with anti-discrimination laws
• Maintain records of their tenant selection process
• Face fines, licence revocation, or legal action for non-compliance