LGBT tenants
It is disappointing for LGBT
renters that there is no framework
to prevent retaliatory eviction as a
result of a landlord discovering
that his renters are LGBT. It is
illegal for a landlord to
discriminate against someone for
being LGBT when initially renting
out property (unless it is a lodger
in the landlord’s home), but this
does not, it seems, apply once an
LGBT tenant has moved in.
However, most landlords are far
more concerned with getting
regular rent payments than with
gender identity, sexual orientation
or ethnicity, so once you are in situ
this is unlikely to be an issue. A
landlord can still evict you if you
fall into rent arrears and cannot
repay them before he gets to court.
But if you stay up to date with rent
and comply with your tenancy
agreement, the landlord will
probably ignore any personal
gripes he may have about your
actual or perceived sexual
orientation or gender identity, and
leave you to enjoy your home in
peace.
David Peachey is a barrister at Enterprise Chambers. Charles Irvine is a
barrister at 1 Gray’s Inn Square Chambers. They both undertake cases in
property, probate and co-ownership. This article is for general information
only and you should contact a property specialist if you require advice about
your individual circumstances.
THEGAYUK | ISSUE 17 | DEC 2015 121
CREDIT: Deberarr / Depositphotos
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