Anti Discrimination Laws for Renters on Benefits and Families in Wales

Renters in Wales can face unfair treatment when applying for a home, paying rent, requesting repairs or dealing with eviction threats. Receiving benefits is not, by itself, a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010, and family circumstances are not always protected in the same way as disability, race, sex, pregnancy or maternity. However, a landlord or agent must not use a protected characteristic as a reason to discriminate, harass or provide worse housing terms. Welsh renting law also gives tenants important rights about occupation contracts, fitness for human habitation and retaliatory action. This guide explains how renters on benefits and families in Wales can identify discrimination, collect evidence, complain and seek help.