Can a Landlord Target a Specific Group in England?

If you're a renter in England, you are protected by laws that make it illegal for landlords to discriminate against particular groups or treat tenants unfairly because of their background, identity, or protected characteristics. Understanding your rights and knowing what steps to take can empower you to respond confidently and seek help if needed.

What Counts as Targeting or Discrimination by a Landlord?

Under English law, landlords must not treat you differently because of what are called protected characteristics. These are set out in the Equality Act 2010 and include:

• Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic/national origin)
• Religion or belief
• Sex or gender
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Pregnancy or maternity
• Age
• Marriage or civil partnership status

This means it is unlawful for a landlord in England to:

• Refuse to rent to you or threaten eviction because of any protected characteristic
• Charge different rent, require higher deposits, or set different tenancy conditions based on these traits
• Harass or treat you unfairly in any aspect of your tenancy due to your identity

Examples

• A landlord advertises a property with wording like "No DSS", meaning tenants on Housing Benefit, or expresses a preference for a certain nationality. This is discrimination.
• A landlord threatens eviction after discovering a tenant's religion or disability. This is unlawful.

Your Legal Protections and Complaint Options

If you believe your landlord is targeting you or someone else because you belong to a specific group, you can rely on several laws and support structures:

• The Equality Act 2010 outlaws discrimination by private landlords and letting agents.
• Most private renters are also protected by the Housing Act 1988, which covers eviction and tenancy rights.
• Council and housing association tenants are further protected under the Rent Act 1977 and other specific statutes.

If you feel you have experienced discrimination:

• Gather any evidence – such as texts, emails, or witness statements.
• Write down the dates and details of what happened.
• Contact your local council’s housing department to report illegal letting practices. Visit Find your local council for contact details.
• You can make a claim in the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England if your case involves tenancy matters and disputes.

Depending on the severity and nature of the landlord’s conduct, you may also wish to seek guidance from official services:

• The Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) provides free advice on discrimination and your legal rights.
• Councils have power to prosecute landlords who break the law, including for harassment and select letting bans (details here).

What Forms Might You Need?

• Form ET1 (Employment Tribunal Claim Form) – Not directly for housing, but the equivalent for discrimination in housing is typically a claim in the County Court under the Equality Act. Find guidance on making a discrimination claim at Discrimination: your rights.
• E41: Application for a Rent Repayment Order – If discrimination has led to illegal eviction or harassment that resulted in loss of your home, you may be able to reclaim rent. See official form and guidance.
• Referral to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Tenants can use Form HM1 to contest tenancy issues (for example, illegal eviction or terms)

Example: If your landlord threatens eviction based on your race or religion, you could use Form HM1 to apply to the tribunal and seek help with your tenancy.

What Happens Next?

After you file a complaint or take legal action, the tribunal or court will contact you for more information or evidence. You may be asked to attend a hearing or provide written statements. Local authorities take discrimination and targeting seriously and can issue penalties or prosecute landlords who break the law.

For most renters, the best first steps are talking to your local council, using official forms if necessary, and getting advice from trusted government or legal services. These steps help protect your rights and hold landlords accountable for any unfair or illegal behaviour.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to rent to me because of my nationality?
   Your landlord cannot legally refuse to let to you based on your nationality. Record what happened, gather any evidence such as messages or adverts, and report to your local council or seek legal advice from the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS).
2. Is it legal for a landlord to advertise 'No DSS' or 'working professionals only'?
   No, advertising that excludes renters receiving benefits or targets protected characteristics is unlawful discrimination. You can report such practices to your local council’s housing department.
3. Which tribunal handles tenant discrimination complaints in England?
   The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England hears many tenancy disputes. For discrimination claims, you may file in the County Court under the Equality Act.
4. What is the most important law for protecting tenants from discrimination?
   The Equality Act 2010 makes it unlawful for landlords to discriminate against tenants because of protected characteristics.
5. Can I get my rent back if treated unfairly or harassed by a landlord?
   In some cases, if illegal eviction or harassment has occurred, you may apply for a Rent Repayment Order using Form E41. Check eligibility and guidance on official government information.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords in England cannot target or discriminate against any group defined by protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.
• If you experience discrimination, gather evidence and report the matter to your council, tribunal, or the Equality Advisory and Support Service.
• Free support and guidance are available from your local council and official government resources to help you take action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) – Free discrimination advice
• Official Guide to Private Renting (Gov.uk)
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England – Residential tenancy disputes
• Discrimination: Your Rights (Gov.uk)
• Find Your Local Council

---

1. Equality Act 2010
2. Housing Act 1988
3. Rent Act 1977
4. Official Government Renting Guidance
5. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation