Not having payslips does not itself establish inability to pay. Ask what income or resources the applicant proposes to use and choose proportionate evidence for that situation.
Match evidence to the situation
- A self-employed applicant may have accounts, tax calculations or other records of continuing income.
- A retired applicant may have pension statements; someone starting work may have a verified contract or offer.
- Ask for enough information to understand the proposed payment source without demanding unrelated sensitive records.
Consider stability and commitments
- Identify seasonal income, a recent change or a temporary gap and ask how rent will be covered.
- Review the evidence over a period appropriate to the circumstances rather than selecting one unusually high or low month.
- Check any guarantor separately instead of treating the word guarantor as automatic approval.
Explain the outcome
- Record the evidence used and any unresolved uncertainty.
- Give the applicant an opportunity to correct a factual error.
- Keep the same relevant standards across applicants and review automated rejections.
Example: seasonal self-employment
A fictional applicant earns unevenly through the year. Review a suitable period and their plan for quieter months. One low month's bank entry alone may not describe the annual ability to pay.
What to do
- Identify the income source and suitable alternative evidence.
- Assess consistency and any foreseeable change.
- Record the decision using the same lawful criteria as other applicants.
Evidence to keep
- Relevant income documents and any explanation of gaps.
- Affordability assessment and agreed supporting arrangement.
Sources and guidance
- Rental discrimination under the Renters’ Rights ActUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- 2026 occupation contract amendments: landlord guidanceWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Rent in advance and depositsUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Taking a deposit as a private landlordScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Data protection advice for small organisationsInformation Commissioner’s Office · checked 20 October 2026