Guide for landlords

Benefits and children: the rules that changed on 01/06/2026

"No DSS" and "no children" have gone from bad practice to unlawful. Here is what changed.

Checked against the legislation on 23/09/2026. This is general information for landlords in Wales, not legal advice for your circumstances.

What changed

Since 01/06/2026, landlords in Wales must not prohibit a contract holder from claiming benefits, and a term restricting children living at or visiting the home has no effect unless the restriction is proportionate.

Refusing an enquiry or a viewing on either ground is now a criminal offence.

What is still allowed

Assessing affordability on a person's actual income is still allowed.

What to do now

If your adverts or contracts still say "no DSS" or "professionals only", now is the time to change them. The rules sit in the Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019, as amended.

Deposit protection: the 30-day rule The written statement and the 14 days Is your rental ready for winter? All guides for landlords

Not sure where your property stands? Both of these are free, and neither commits you to anything.

Does your property meet the law in Wales? Ten questions, two minutes. A written result by email, covering Rent Smart Wales, safety certificates, deposits and the 2026 rules. What should your property let for? Tell us about it and we will email you a rent range within one working day - from a Cardiff property manager, not an algorithm.