Rent and Credit > How to Prepare for Renting with Children in 2025

How to Prepare for Renting with Children in 2025

Wollit Team2 minute read · Updated 28th August 2025

Finding a rental property with children can be challenging in the UK housing market. From understanding your rights to dealing with landlords who prefer tenants without children, being prepared is key to finding the right home for your family.

Know Your Rights as a Tenant with Children

As a parent, you have legal protections when renting. The Equality Act 2010 means landlords cannot refuse you simply because you have children. However, they can still say no for genuine reasons like overcrowding or safety concerns.

Your key rights include:

Equal treatment during the application process
Protection from unfair 'no children' policies
Right to live peacefully in your rented home
Protection from being kicked out unfairly

If you face discrimination, keep records of all conversations and contact Shelter or Citizens Advice for help.

Dealing with 'No Children' Policies

Some landlords still try to avoid renting to families, often due to worries about noise or damage. While blanket 'no children' policies are usually illegal, landlords can refuse you for valid reasons.

Legitimate reasons include:

Safety issues (like unsafe balconies or stairs)
Too many people for the property size
Insurance restrictions

To improve your chances:

Provide excellent references from previous landlords
Show proof of steady income
Offer to pay a larger deposit if allowed
Work with letting agents who welcome families

Planning Your Finances

Renting with children costs more than just the basic rent. You need to budget for extra expenses and potential rent increases while supporting your family.

Key costs to consider:

Add 10-15% to the advertised rent for extras like council tax and utilities
Keep money aside for unexpected repairs or rent rises
Factor in higher costs near good schools
Budget for childcare and after-school activities

Finding the Right Property

Family-friendly properties need specific features beyond just enough bedrooms. Location is crucial when you have children to think about.

What to look for:

Ground floor access for pushchairs and equipment
Garden or nearby parks for children to play
Close to good schools and doctors
Safe area with quiet roads

Properties in child-friendly areas often cost more, but investing in your family's safety and your children's education is usually worth the extra expense.

Making Your Application Stand Out

Renting with children means competing against tenants without kids. Property viewings and paperwork become more complicated, but there are ways to make the process easier.

Practical tips:

Book viewings during school hours when possible
Prepare a strong application showing you're reliable
Get references from previous landlords and employers
Consider a guarantor if your income seems low

If you have credit problems, our renting with bad credit guide offers advice on strengthening your application despite financial difficulties.

Getting Support and Help

You don't have to navigate renting with children alone. There's help available, especially if you're a single parent or struggling financially.

Support options include:

Housing benefit or universal credit to help with rent
Council housing waiting lists for cheaper homes
Deposit schemes that lend you the money upfront
School support to ensure your children keep their places

For more detailed guidance on tenant rights and practical renting tips, visit our knowledge base.

Renting with children may seem daunting, but knowing your rights, preparing properly, and getting the right support means you can find a suitable home for your family's needs.