Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Pension Credit claimants face a significant rule change from May 1, with a new law making discrimination against them illegal. Under the current system, those renting on Pension Credit often experience discrimination, either overtly through 'No DSS' adverts or indirectly via demands for large upfront rent.
New Renters' Rights Bill
The Labour government's Renters' Rights Bill, effective from May 1, will outlaw such discrimination. This empowers prospective tenants to take action against landlords and estate agents who discriminate against benefit recipients. The term 'DSS tenants'—referring to the former Department of Social Security—is still used today to describe those receiving housing benefits or Universal Credit.
Landlord Concerns
Deshal Raja, who owns 50 properties and manages 230, says the new law could leave him 'stuck with' tenants he doesn't fully trust. He describes the Act as a 'total nightmare' but plans to weather the changes rather than sell properties.
Housing Secretary Steve Reed stated: 'Across London, 2.7 million renters will benefit from Labour's Renters' Rights Bill, ending Section 21 no-fault evictions, capping unfair rent hikes, and introducing a new ombudsman. It will also ban bidding wars and stop blanket bans on families and benefit recipients.'
