Securing a rental property can be challenging at the best of times, but for tenants who rely on housing benefits, the hurdles can feel insurmountable. Despite laws designed to prevent discrimination, many tenants receiving housing benefits still face significant challenges when searching for DSS accepting landlords. 

With changing rental market dynamics, including falling rents outside London and increasing awareness of tenant rights, 2025 presents new opportunities for DSS tenants to find suitable housing. By understanding your rights, leveraging specialized resources, and enhancing your rental application, you can navigate the rental market effectively.

At Find My Move, we recognize the unique challenges faced by DSS tenants and are committed to bridging the gap between renters and DSS friendly landlords. 

This guide will walk you through how to find DSS private rentals, avoid common pitfalls, and secure a home without unnecessary stress.

What Does DSS Mean in Letting?

DSS is short for the Department for Social Security, now commonly known as the Department for Work and Pensions, DWP. This term is obsolete but still regularly used within the rental market to define tenants who benefit from housing allowances, like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, in order to pay their rent.

Regrettably, there are still a few old-fashioned landlords, still using “No DSS,” policies which exclude any tenants on benefits. 

Even with the landmark decision of 2020 that policies in this area are discriminatory, the private rental market remains unobtainable to most benefit claimants.

1. Difficulties in Securing DSS-Accepting Landlords

Misconceptions and Bias

Many landlords perceive that tenants on benefits are unreliable or will not pay the rent on time. These are, however, usually misconceptions. The DSS tenants receive regular government payments, thus making them equally reliable as any other tenant in terms of paying the rent on time.

Competition in the Rental Market

With rental demand at an all-time high, DSS tenants often face stiff competition from others who may be perceived as “easier” tenants, such as professionals or students.

Unfair Practices

Some landlords still list properties with terms like “No DSS” or try to impose stricter conditions on benefit recipients, such as demanding larger deposits or guarantors.

2. How to Find DSS Accepting Landlords

Still, there are still landlords and letting agencies that are open to tenants on benefits. Here’s how to go about it:

a.    Online Platforms Specialising in DSS Lettings

Sites such as DSSMove, OpenRent, and Find My Move make it easier to find DSS-friendly property owners. These sites easily allow you to filter your search specifically for DSS-friendly landlords.

b.    Contact Local Housing Authorities

Local councils often keep lists of landlords and properties willing to accept tenants on benefits. They can also guide you in securing a rental.

c.     Seek Help from DSS-Friendly Letting Agents

Many letting agents understand the needs of tenants on housing benefits. They may have contacts with DSS friendly landlords or even guide you in finding the right property.

d.    Network Locally

News or local information distributed from community boards or Facebook groups would include the option for letting a DSS tenancy; joining these related groups can be useful for contacting local housing charities such as Shelter or Crisis can be useful.

e.    Check Universal Credit Resources

These include guidance as to how the Universal Credit payments can be clarified with a landlord, as well as the options of direct pay through rent arrangements.

3. Ideas on Getting a Private DSS Rented

Finding a property is only the first step. Here is how you can increase your chances of getting a DSS rental:

a.   Be Prepared with Documentation

Having all your documents ready will make you a better tenant. These include:

  • Income or benefit award letters.
  • References from previous landlords.
  • Details of your guarantor if required.

b.    Offer Direct Rent Payments

Reassure the landlord by promising to arrange for direct rent payments from your Universal Credit. This gives the landlord an assurance that the rent will be paid on time.

c.     Communicate Clearly

Be honest about your situation and proactive in addressing concerns. Explain how your housing benefits work and highlight your reliability as a tenant.

d.    Consider a Guarantor

A guarantor can provide extra security for landlords, especially if they’re hesitant to accept DSS tenants. This could be a family member or friend who agrees to cover rent payments if you’re unable to.

e.    Save for a Larger Deposit

Although not always required, offering a larger deposit may reassure landlords and increase your chances of securing the property.

4. Legal Protections for DSS Tenants

Knowing your rights as a tenant is very essential. In 2020, the court ruling made it clear that “No DSS” policies are discriminatory against the Equality Act 2010. If you feel discriminated, you can: 

  • Report to the local council
  • Seek advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice
  • Submit a complaint with the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Did You Know?

More than 20% of landlords were unaware that blanket “No DSS” policies are illegal, according to a survey by the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) in 2022.

5. Recent Developments in the Rental Market

As of January 2025, the rental landscape has seen notable changes:

  • Decrease in Rents Outside London: For the first time since 2019, average monthly rents outside London have decreased, reaching £1,341 in the last quarter of 2024. This decline is attributed to an increase in available rental properties and a decrease in tenant inquiries, indicating a cooling market.

  • London Rental Trends: In contrast, London continues to experience rising rents, with the average reaching a record £2,695 per month. This increase is partly due to a higher number of landlords selling their properties, reducing the supply of rental homes.

6. Breaking the Myths: Why Landlords Should Accept DSS Tenants

Many landlords shy away from DSS tenants due to myths and misconceptions. Here’s the truth:

Myth 1: DSS Payments Are Unreliable

Reality: Universal Credit payments are consistent and can even be paid directly to landlords, reducing the risk of missed rent.

Myth 2: DSS Tenants Cause More Property Damage

Reality: This statement is not true. As with any tenant, their behavior is different from person to person. And any landlord can minimize risk by asking for deposits and conducting regular property checks.

Myth 3: It is more Difficult to Evict DSS Tenants

Reality: DSS tenants have exactly the same rental agreement and legal provisions as all other tenants.

In opening up their doors to DSS tenants, landlords can reach out to a broader pool of responsible tenants and avoid extended periods of emptiness.

7. Why Find My Move?

Find My Move is one website that has committed itself to making the rental process easy for everyone, including DSS tenants. Here’s how we help:

  • Dedicated Search Tools: Our platform allows you to search for DSS private rentals quickly and efficiently.
  • Resources and Support: We give you all you need, guides included, to secure a home.
  • Inclusive Listings: We work with DSS friendly landlords who want reliable tenants, be it because their income is DSS or otherwise.

8. Common Questions About DSS Rentals

Q: Can a landlord refuse DSS tenants?

Well, legally, they can’t ban DSS tenants entirely. If you find discrimination, report it to Shelter or your local council.

Q: Do all letting agents work with DSS tenants?

No, but many agents now specialize in helping tenants on benefits. Look for agents advertising DSS-friendly properties or check platforms like Find My Move.

Q: How do I prove I can afford rent?

Provide evidence of your housing benefit payments, Universal Credit awards, or other income sources. A guarantor can also strengthen your application.

Final Thoughts

Well, finding a DSS accepting landlord is hard and requires a lot of time and effort. Still, with the proper approach, this is possible. For example, you can look for a firm, prepare everything you need, know your rights, and overcome the hurdles to secure a place that suits all your requirements.

At Find My Move, we believe that everybody deserves a place to stay. Whether you’re looking for DSS private rentals, need assistance, or wish to interact with DSS friendly landlords, then Find My Move is here to see you every step of the way. Get started today and take that first step toward your new home.

Having difficulties looking for a DSS rental? Visit Find My Move and look through hundreds of properties tailored to your needs!