Why do some landlords say no to HB tenants?

Kay.Samuels

I would like to say thank you to all of the posters that have replied, I am now more knowledgeable about the downsides of a landlod taking in a HB tenant - I didn't know they couldn't persue unpaid rent for example! I think it's a shame A don't just pay rents direct to the LLs - would be better all round!

The advice of asking my current landlord for a reference is a great idea as I have done the whole house up since i moved in in November and he is made up.

I will continue my housing search and the right house will come along eventually I know it.

Moaner

It bascially comes down to stereotyping. It is assumed by a lot of people that someone who gets HB could be potentially be rough and troublesome. You get benefits so therefore you are a 'risk'. However, that is not always the case and lots of people who get benefits, are law abiding, respectable people who would make great tenants. It's just that people read scare stories and naturally they want to protect themselves from hassle.

To be honest, from a landlords point of view, an ideal tenant is a high earning professional, mild mannered and who is a total clean freak. Well, that's mine anyway!

Is there anyway, you can ask to meet with potential landlords, so that you can put their minds at rest and explain your circumstances?

tbs624

Kay.Samuels wrote: »

I have never come across nasty posters on MSE before - I am so upset!

When I post I mention my situation so people reading get a full picture e.g why I am receiving a certain benefit or am saving up or paying off debts etc. Obviously my son having a disability is a big part of my life. I'm sorry if my mentioning it offends people, and I am CERTAINLY not looking for pity. Nor did I 'have sex and get lucky' my son was planned and came into the world with two loving, working parents who had been together many years before starting a family. Why not keep your assumptions and prejudices to yourself. :mad:

Kay - when you post on a public forum you will get all sorts of respond posts but don't let words on a computer screen get to you. Other posters don't know you and the reality of your situation- you do and that what counts.

Go through User CP on the green bar above to find how to use the "ignore" function and focus on the other more helpful comments you've received.

Good luck with your search for a new home.:)

Try the local LL association for LLs who self manage their properties and consider putting your own "wanted" ads up: there are still LLs who will gladly let to those in receipt of LHA

Kay.Samuels

I also use a parenting forum that's well known for it's robust responses but have never come across a nasty post on MSE before - I think I just wasn't expecting it - I'm not usually easily upset! Thanks for the advice about the ignore button - I could do with one of those in everyday life! :rotfl: