How to challenge DSS discrimination
The law is changing
Most private tenants will get stronger rights.
Letter template: Complain about DSS discrimination
A formal complaint could be your next step if the agent does not reply to an informal email.
This template includes common reasons given by agents for refusing to rent to tenants on benefits and why these are not legal excuses.
The agent has up to 8 weeks to give a final response.
Copy our template into an email.
[Use the subject: Formal complaint about DSS discrimination]
Dear [letting agent name]
I asked to view or rent the property at [address].
I was told that you do not accept tenants who receive benefits.
I respectfully asked you to reconsider and offer me a viewing on [date of previous email].
As a reminder, my monthly income is £xxx and I can afford this property.
I currently rent a similar property for a monthly rent of £xxx. I have always paid in full and on time. I can provide proof of income and rent payment history.
I believe I have been unfairly discriminated against. You refused my application to view or rent a property that was both suitable and affordable just because I receive benefits.
Please reply within 3 weeks to confirm that:
You will reconsider my application for this property or similar properties.
You will no longer reject applications on the grounds that a tenant is receiving benefits.
In conclusion, I still wish to view or rent this property.
I have shown that I would be a suitable tenant for this property or similar properties.
If I do not receive a satisfactory response within 3 weeks, I will complain to your redress scheme.
I look forward to hearing from you.
[Your name and contact number]
You can also send it as an email attachment or letter.
Word template: Formal complaint about DSS discrimination (docx 24kb)
OpenDocument template: Formal complaint about DSS discrimination (odt 9kb)
What happens after you complain
The agent should tell you that they have received your complaint within 3 working days.
They should then look into the complaint. They have:
3 weeks to give you a full response
8 weeks to give you a final response if you're not happy with their full response
Complain to a redress scheme
All letting agents must be registered with either:
They must display the scheme they belong to in the offices and on their website.
These schemes look into customer complaints about letting agents.
You can take your complaint to a redress scheme if:
the agent ignores your email or letter
you do not get a full response in 3 weeks
you do not get a final response in 8 weeks
you are not satisfied with agent's final response
Last updated: 17 November 2025
