Receiving benefits does not tell you the whole affordability position. Review the evidence relevant to the household and apply the country's discrimination rules.
Understand the actual resources
- Consider the income the applicant receives and any relevant regular commitments.
- Distinguish a confirmed award from an estimate or pending claim.
- Ask how a gap between housing support and rent would be covered, allowing relevant evidence of other resources.
Avoid an unlawful shortcut
- Remove blanket exclusions where prohibited and review referencing-provider settings.
- Apply genuine property and occupancy limits from the actual licence or safety requirements.
- Do not use children or benefit receipt as a substitute for an individual assessment.
Explain the outcome
- Record the calculation and any uncertainty without unnecessary sensitive detail.
- Allow correction of an inaccurate award or income figure.
- If an insurer or lender condition appears to conflict with legal obligations, obtain advice and resolve it rather than silently applying a prohibited restriction.
Example: housing support is only part of income
A fictional applicant receives £600 housing support and has other regular income towards £800 rent. Assess the full relevant position. Comparing the rent only with the housing-support element may give an incomplete answer.
What to do
- Identify the income and housing support relevant to the rent.
- Assess any ongoing shortfall and proposed payment arrangement.
- Record a factual decision and review any automated exclusion.
Evidence to keep
- Relevant income evidence and affordability calculation.
- Applicant explanation and decision record.
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
- Universal Credit: rented housing guide for landlordsDepartment for Work and Pensions · checked 20 October 2026
- Data protection advice for small organisationsInformation Commissioner’s Office · checked 20 October 2026
- Being a private landlordScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026