From May 2026, new rules are in place stopping landlords from refusing tenants with children or benefits.
These new rules are being introduced to prevent discrimination for certain tenants. If landlords are caught refusing tenants with children or benefits, they could face costly fines or legal action.
With the UK government clamping down on tenant discrimination, landlords will need to be extra careful when it comes to tenant sourcing and their communication. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. At J Property Management London, we can help you every step of the way – from managing your tenant communications to introducing measures to protect you as a landlord while still welcoming all types of tenants.
Contact us today to see how we can help!
What Are The Current Rules Protecting Tenants From Discrimination?
In accordance with The Equality Act 2010, there are certain laws in place when it comes to protecting tenants from discrimination for the following characteristics:
- Sexual orientation
- Sex
- Disability
- Race
- Gender reassignment
- Pregnancy
- Religion or belief.
However, new rules being introduced in 2026 will ensure that landlords cannot discriminate against tenants with children under 18 or tenants who are receiving welfare benefits.
What Do Landlords Need To Be Aware Of From 2026 With Regard To Tenant Discrimination?
From 1 May 2026, blanket bans against potential tenants with children or tenants receiving benefits will be illegal. This is to make conditions fairer for tenants and protect them against unfair practices and discrimination from landlords.
Here are some key things that landlords will no longer be able to do as of May 2026:
Blanket Bans
Landlords can no longer use blanket bans to refuse tenants. For example, they will not be able to ban an entire type of tenant – such as tenants with children or tenants receiving benefits.
Discriminatory Language
Property listings or other adverts will not be able to use any discriminatory language like “no children” or “professionals only”. Landlords, as well as letting agents, will need to be more cautious when it comes to the language they use so as not to be accused of discriminating against any type of potential tenants.
Minimum Upfront Rent
Landlords will only be able to request upfront rent of a maximum of one month’s rent. This is to make renting more accessible for all types of renters and to avoid exploitative landlord practices.
Unfair Selection Processes
The UK government will be clamping down on ensuring fair selection processes. This means there’ll be a greater level of scrutiny regarding tenant screening, withholding information or restricting property views.
If you’re worried about getting caught out for unfair selection processes, talk to our team. At J Property Management, we help landlords make sure they’re doing everything by the book – without sacrificing their property investment profit. Contact us today to see how we can assist with fair tenant practices.
How Can Landlords Stay Protected Without Refusing Tenants With Children Or Benefits?
There are ways landlords can still protect themselves and their properties without refusing certain types of tenants including:
Financial Assessment
Landlords are not able to discriminate against tenants receiving benefits but they can still assess tenants to ensure that they can afford rent payments through background checks and financial referencing. This will flag tenants with bad credit or who may have a history of missed rent payments. The key is that these checks are carried out for all potential tenants – not just those receiving benefits.
Ask For A Guarantor
Landlords are legally entitled to request a guarantor. This can be a good protective measure as it means that whatever financial difficulty a tenant may be facing, their rent will be covered and rental income will remain stable. Landlords can also reject a guarantor if they don’t meet certain criteria.
Refuse Tenants Based On Suitability
A landlord could refuse tenancy if they can demonstrate that the property is unsuitable for children; however, as part of the Renters’ Rights Act, landlords will be under new pressures to make sure their house is safe and habitable.
Renting to families can actually be a good move for landlords looking to ensure long-term financial stability and there are certain steps they can take to make their homes appealing for families with children.
Update Materials
To avoid penalties, ensure compliance and ensure no tenant discrimination, landlords should make sure to update all their materials such as property listings, marketing and tenant screening checklists.
What Happens If Landlords Refuse Tenants With Children Or Benefits In 2026?
If landlords refuse tenants with children or benefits, they could be reported to their local authority and face penalties of up to £7,000 for breaching anti-discrimination rules. For landlords found guilty of serious offenses or repeat breaches, they could face up to £40,000 in fines.
Updating Tenant Practices For 2026 With J Property Management
While landlords may not be able to refuse certain tenant types, they can still be taking action to ensure that their property is in good hands.
At J Property Management, we help UK landlords stay legally compliant without sacrificing profit. From updating your tenant materials and ensuring legal tenant screening practices to handling year-round property maintenance and 24/7 tenant support, we make sure that your property is being well looked after.
We’re here to help you get the best out of your property investment – avoiding costly fees and maximising long-term financial stability. Contact us today to find out about our personalised property management services!
