Renters (Reform) Bill

The UK Government is in the process of introducing new legislation, the Renters (Reform) Bill, which includes provisions to make it illegal for landlords and letting agents to apply a blanket ban on renting to people who receive benefits or families with children. Whilst the majority of the provisions in the Bill only apply in England and Wales, the provisions on renting to those with children or on benefits will also apply in Scotland.

This legislation will help to ensure that families and those on benefits are not discriminated against when looking for a home to rent. Landlords would still be able to refuse to rent to those with children or on benefits in some circumstances, like if the property would be overcrowded or the tenants’ income is insufficient to cover the rent (after accounting for other household expenditure).

The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent next month. The UK government has not yet committed to when the provisions in the Bill will come into force but it is expected to be around 3-6 months after the Bill receives Royal Assent. We will keep members updated with developments on these provisions.