Landlords advertising ‘Muslim only’ housing in potential violation of discrimination laws

A number of rental listings circulating online in parts of London and southeast England are drawing scrutiny after reportedly specifying religious preferences for tenants, raising concerns about potential breaches of anti-discrimination laws.

According to a report, dozens of advertisements posted across platforms such as Facebook, Telegram, and Gumtree included phrases like “Muslims only,” “Muslim boys or girls,” and “Muslims preferred.” In one example, a one-bedroom space was marketed as suitable for a “Gujarati Muslim student,” with the listing noting the unit was move-in ready and located near a mosque.

A rental listing in London searching for "Muslim only" tenants posted to Facebook. — A rental listing in London searching for “Muslim only” tenants posted online. craigslist

Beyond Muslim-specific listings, some ads also sought tenants based on other criteria such as religion, nationality, or language, including Hindu and Punjabi applicants. Certain postings also included lifestyle requirements, such as prohibiting alcohol consumption and smoking.

These kinds of restrictions may conflict with the UK’s Equality Act 2010, which prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, and other protected characteristics. However, there is an exception when landlords are renting out rooms within their own homes and sharing living spaces like kitchens or bathrooms, where they may legally express preferences tied to lifestyle compatibility.

Muslim worshippers take part in a Eid al-Fitr morning prayer in Birmingham, England, on March 20, 2026. Anadolu via Getty Images

One such post specified that a one-bedroom living space was available for "girls" and suitable for "Gujarati Muslim Student." — One such post specified that a one-bedroom living space was available for “girls” and suitable for “Gujarati Muslim Student.” craigslist

The listings have sparked criticism from some public figures who argue they unfairly limit access to housing. Robert Jenrick, Reform UK’s economic spokesman, condemned the ads, calling them discriminatory and warning that similar practices targeting other groups would likely provoke widespread backlash. He emphasized that no group should be permitted to exclude others on religious grounds.

When reporters contacted individuals behind several of the listings to ask whether non-Muslim tenants would be considered, they were reportedly declined each time. Following inquiries, some of the ads were taken down from Facebook.

The possible biased housing listings were blasted for catering to one certain religious group and not being open to all citizens. craigslist

A "sharing studio flat" listing searching for a Muslim male in England. — A “sharing studio flat” listing searching for a Muslim male in England. craigslist

Gumtree responded by noting that many of the listings appear to involve rooms within shared homes, where existing occupants may seek housemates with similar habits or values. A spokesperson added that the company reviews complaints about inappropriate content and distinguishes between shared housing arrangements and full property rentals, which are subject to stricter legal standards.

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