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Lettings & tenants
england

Discrimination, pets and rental bidding

Blanket bans on benefits claimants and families are unlawful, pet requests must be considered, and you cannot invite offers above the advertised rent.

Last reviewed 31 August 2026

Banned practices

  • No DSS / no benefits and no children policies are unlawful, in advertising, referencing and decision-making.
  • Rental bidding is banned: you must state a rent when advertising and must not ask for or accept more than it.
  • Refusing an applicant because of a protected characteristic breaches the Equality Act 2010.

Pets

A tenant may request to keep a pet. You must respond in writing and must not unreasonably refuse. A refusal needs a genuine reason — for example a superior landlord's prohibition. You may require the tenant to hold pet damage insurance where permitted.

Practical steps

  1. Review all advertising copy and referencing criteria for banned wording.
  2. Assess affordability on income from all lawful sources, including benefits.
  3. Record the reason for every applicant decision — LIS stores this on the applicant record if a complaint follows.

Official sources

This is general guidance on the law in the UK, not legal advice. Rules change and the right answer depends on your circumstances — check the official sources linked on each guide and take professional advice before acting.