The Gay UK December 2015 | Page 121

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 ADVICELEGAL