23.11.2025 00:40
In England, landlords who discriminate against families with children and those receiving social benefits will face heavy fines. With the new law, landlords who refuse to show or rent their properties to these groups will be subject to fines starting at £7,000 and escalating to £14,000 for repeat offenses.
A significant step has been taken against discriminatory practices in the rental housing market in England, which have been a topic of debate for a long time. Landlords who exclude families with children and those receiving social assistance will now face hefty fines.
PENALTY FOR REJECTING TENANTS RECEIVING SOCIAL ASSISTANCE OR WITH CHILDREN
The "Renters' Rights Act 2025," which has been passed in the country, includes provisions that will fundamentally change the rental housing regulations. According to the law, rejecting a tenant receiving social assistance or a family with children solely for this reason will now be considered a violation subject to criminal penalties. Similarly, preventing a tenant from viewing a property will also be regarded as discrimination.
PENALTIES OF UP TO 7,000 POUNDS
The regulation foresees that landlords identified as discriminatory will face fines of up to 7,000 pounds imposed by local authorities. If the violation is not corrected, an additional 7,000 pounds may be deducted every 28 days. Furthermore, the law allows penalties for repeated similar violations within five years to rise to 14,000 pounds.
RESEARCH CONFIRMS DISCRIMINATION
The government emphasizes that this regulation addresses a long-standing issue, while a housing survey conducted last year reveals the situation. According to the survey, 38% of landlords stated they do not want to rent to those receiving social assistance, and 13% do not want to rent to families with children. A significant portion of landlords expresses the view that these groups are more likely to default on rent payments.
'NO-FAULT EVICTION' TO BE REMOVED IN MAY
Another significant step is being taken under the "Renters' Rights Act 2025." The law will end the 'no-fault eviction' practice with a regulation that will come into effect in May. In the new system, tenants will be able to file official complaints with local authorities when they face discrimination. Landlords will only be able to reject applications if they can provide evidence that the tenant will not pay rent.