The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to bring one of the biggest changes to the lettings industry in years, especially around housing discrimination. For landlords, understanding what’s changing and how to stay compliant has never been more important.
Why this matters
Despite the efforts of responsible landlords, discrimination in the rental market is still a problem. Shelter data shows that 110,000 families were denied homes in the past six years simply because they had children.
Discrimination in housing is already unlawful under the Equality Act 2010. The new Bill will go further, making it explicitly illegal to refuse tenants because they have children or receive benefits.
For landlords, this means reviewing processes now. Embedding fairness and transparency into your entire lettings journey will be vital, from advertising through to tenant selection.
Understanding housing discrimination in the UK
Under the Equality Act, landlords cannot discriminate against people based on:
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Disability (including mental health & physical disabilities)
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Race
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Religion or belief
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Sex
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Sexual orientation
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Gender reassignment
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Pregnancy & maternity
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Age
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Marriage & civil partnerships
The Renters’ Rights Bill extends this protection to cover:
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Families with children
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Tenants on benefits or housing allowances
Types of discrimination to avoid
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Direct discrimination – refusing a tenant because of a protected characteristic (e.g. “no children” or “no DSS” policies)
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Indirect discrimination – applying a policy that seems neutral but disadvantages a protected group
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Harassment – behaviour that creates a hostile or degrading environment
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Victimisation – treating someone unfairly because they made or supported a complaint
What changes under the Renters’ Rights Bill?
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Clear protection for families and tenants on benefits – blanket bans will no longer be allowed
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Abolition of Section 21 – no-fault evictions are ending, giving tenants more security to challenge discrimination
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Stronger enforcement – breaches may appear on the new PRS Database, damaging reputation as well as finances
Legal consequences for non-compliance
Civil claims can be brought under the Equality Act 2010, with compensation awarded for financial loss, distress, or injury to feelings.
Courts use the Vento bands to set damages:
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Lower band: £1,200 – £12,100
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Middle band: £12,100 – £36,400
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Upper band: £36,400 – £60,700
The reputational cost of being listed as a non-compliant landlord may be even higher.
Practical steps landlords can take
Advertising:
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Avoid phrases like “professionals only” or “no DSS”
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Focus on the property, not the “ideal tenant”
Screening:
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Use fair, clear criteria (references, income checks)
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Keep written records of decisions in case they’re challenged
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Document, Document, Document!
Communication:
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Treat all tenants equally
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Be mindful during viewings, make reasonable adjustments where needed
Training:
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Invest time in understanding the law
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Keep up to date with new guidance and updates from the Renters’ Rights Bill
Final word
Most landlords want to do the right thing, to provide good homes fairly. But unconscious bias and outdated practices can creep in, sometimes without intent.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is about closing those gaps and raising standards across the board.
At Personal Economy Lettings, we’re committed to transparent, fair processes that protect both landlords and tenants. Fairer renting is better for everyone, and it starts with simple, informed steps.
