Can a landlord prevent me from renting because I receive benefits or universal credit?

housing, tenant
Mar 02 | 2020
If a Landlord or a Lettings Agent advertises a property to rent saying that 'the Landlord will not accept anyone who is in receipt of benefits', may find themselves in breach of the law and face fines. The law does not allow a person who is in receipt of universal credit, to become a victim of discrimination. Recent cases that have been brought against Landlords or their Agents have resulted in substantial fines.  In 2018, Landlords were fined up to 3,500, but the legal costs of the Tenants who brought the claims were up to £10,000.00. The message to Landlords and Agents is clear, they cannot discriminate against tenants by taking a blanket approach to who they rent, they cannot discriminate against anyone, regardless of their colour, the sexual preference, gender, disability or whether the tenant pays privately or is in receipt of state benefits. This may cause some issues with Landlords because some lenders of buy-to-let mortgages will not allow Landlords rent to tenants who are not paying privately.  The reason is, some lenders believe that Tenants who receive their benefits are more of a risk.  If the Landlord needs the rent to pay the mortgage, then some lenders feel housing benefit tenants may not pay the rent to the landlord thereby putting the landlord in arrears with the rent. Landlords should discuss this with their financial advisor before they accept the terms of the buy-to-let mortgage, they should always fully read the terms of all policies and mortgage conditions. It may help if the Government allows housing benefit to be paid directly to Landlords, or, makes it unlawful for lenders to request that tenants cannot be claiming benefits.

How can I get assistance with renting on benefits?

So if you are a tenant and you need a housing lawyer to help you with a discrimination case, then please call Newbold Solicitors housing team for advice and assistance.  If you are a Landlord looking for housing/tenant advice, then we will be happy to provide you FREE legal telephone assistance.    
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