Can Landlords Refuse Tenants on Universal Credit? The New Discrimination Rules
England · private residential tenancies
Source checked: 9 September 2026

Landlords in England must not reject or disadvantage applicants because they receive Universal Credit or other benefits. You can assess whether the applicant can afford the property using fair, relevant criteria. Review adverts, viewing access, referencing and guarantor requirements so benefit status is not used as a blanket filter or indirect barrier.

ACTION CHECKLIST
- Remove blanket benefits and family exclusions.
- Review viewing access and automated responses.
- Set relevant affordability criteria in advance.
- Consider lawful income and evidence consistently.
- Check guarantor, insurance and mortgage assumptions.
- Record actual occupancy limits where relevant.
- Keep a concise evidence-based selection decision.
- Review complaints and agent instructions promptly.


Read the full guide: https://help4landlords.co.uk/guides/universal-credit-tenants-discrimination/

Official sources:
Rental discrimination: landlord overview: https://www.gov.uk/rental-discrimination-landlords
Detailed discrimination guidance and examples: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rental-discrimination-under-the-renters-rights-act-2025/rental-discrimination-under-the-renters-rights-act-2025
Permitted payments and guarantors: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fees-you-can-charge-as-part-of-a-tenancy

General information, not tailored advice. Verify current requirements before acting.