The government says the Renters’ Rights Act strengthens protections against discrimination in the private rented sector.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook said the legislation targets both obvious and indirect discrimination during the lettings process.
New Protections
The Act makes it unlawful for landlords and letting agents to discriminate against prospective tenants because they receive benefits or have children. Breaches can result in fines of up to £7,000.
Labour MP Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi asked whether landlords and letting agents should explain why applications are rejected, helping ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and the Renters’ Rights Act.
Pennycook said the legislation extends existing Equality Act protections to people receiving benefits and families with children.
Local authorities will also have stronger powers to investigate and act against discriminatory practices.
The rules cover obvious practices such as “No DSS” adverts as well as less direct methods of preventing applicants from securing a tenancy.
Higher Standards for Landlords and Agents
The government also wants higher standards across the property sector. The Property Ombudsman already has a mandatory code for its letting agent members.
Later this year, a non-statutory code setting out minimum standards for property agents is due to be published, with legislation to make compliance compulsory also under consideration.
The planned Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will also be able to issue landlord guidance and codes of practice.
The government has previously suggested that the PRS Ombudsman could consider a landlord’s previous conduct when handling complaints.
What It Means for Landlords
Landlords and letting agents will need to take greater care when advertising properties, assessing applicants and making tenancy decisions.
Letting practices should be fair, consistent and compliant with the latest legislation, as discriminatory practices could lead to financial and reputational consequences.
The wider aim is to create a rental market where tenants are treated fairly and landlords and agents have clearer standards to follow.
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