Step 2: check who you can take action against
The Equality Act 2010 says you can take action against companies or people who discriminate against you when they:
- sell or rent out a home, such as renting a property through a letting agent - this is called ‘disposal of premises’ in the law
- need to agree to sell or rent out a home, such as a joint owner - this is called ‘permission for disposal of premises’ in the law
- manage a home, such as landlords, agents and people collecting rent - this is called ‘management of premises’ in the law
An estate agent may be acting on behalf of a landlord so if an estate agent has discriminated against you might be able to take action against both of them.
Who you can take action against is covered by sections 33 to 35 of the Equality Act 2010.
If you’ve asked for changes to help with your disability
You can take action against most people who look after a property - called ‘controllers of premises’ in the law.
Controllers of premises might be:
- landlords
- property managers
If your building is owned by a commonhold association, you can also take action against them.
Who you can take action against is covered by section 36 of the Equality Act 2010.
If your problem is with any of these people you can find out whether their actions are against discrimination law in step 3.
If someone else has treated you unfairly or differently
You might be able to take action against service providers if you’ve been treated unfairly or differently by someone else who deals with your home, for example:
- surveyors and valuers
- solicitors
- mortgage lenders
If you’re being treated badly by other tenants or neighbours
You can complain about your neighbour.