How to choose the right tenants is one of the most important parts of being a successful landlord. A reliable tenant can mean consistent rental income, fewer issues, and a smoother overall experience. However, it’s equally important to ensure your selection process is fair, legal, and free from discrimination.
If you’re letting property in Melksham, Calne, or Devizes, this guide will show you how to choose the right tenants while staying fully compliant with UK law.
Why Choosing the Right Tenant Matters
The quality of your tenant can directly impact your investment.
The benefits of a good tenant:
- Pays rent on time
- Looks after the property
- Communicates effectively
- Stays longer, reducing void periods
On the other hand, poor tenant selection can lead to missed payments, property damage, and legal complications.
Understanding How to Choose the Right Tenants
As a landlord, you must comply with the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from discrimination.
You must NOT discriminate based on:
- Race or ethnicity
- Gender or gender identity
- Religion or beliefs
- Disability
- Sexual orientation
- Family status (e.g. children)
This applies to advertising, viewings, and tenant selection. Failing to comply can lead to serious legal consequences.
1. How to Choose the Right Tenants Using Fair Criteria
Before marketing your property, define what makes a suitable tenant—based on objective, non-discriminatory factors.
Examples include:
- Income level (e.g. affordability ratio)
- Employment status or stability
- Credit history
- Previous landlord references
Having consistent criteria helps ensure all applicants are treated equally.
2. Tenant Referencing When Choosing the Right Tenants
Referencing is one of the most effective ways to assess suitability.
Key checks:
- Credit check – identifies financial reliability
- Employment verification – confirms income
- Previous landlord reference – reveals past behaviour
- Affordability assessment – ensures rent is manageable
In competitive rental markets like Melksham and Calne, thorough referencing helps you secure reliable tenants quickly.
3. Conduct Right to Rent Checks Properly
Landlords in England are legally required to carry out Right to Rent checks.
This involves:
- Verifying tenants’ legal right to live in the UK
- Checking original documents
- Applying the same process to all applicants
It’s crucial to carry out these checks consistently for every applicant to avoid discrimination risks.
4. Treat All Applicants Equally
Consistency is key when selecting tenants.
Best practices:
- Offer the same information to all applicants
- Use the same application process
- Avoid making assumptions based on personal characteristics
Decisions should always be based on evidence—not personal opinions or bias.
5. Be Careful with Property Advertising
Your property listing must also comply with anti-discrimination laws.
Avoid phrases like:
- “No children”
- “Professionals only” (unless justified and carefully worded)
- “No DSS” (this has been widely challenged and can be discriminatory)
Instead, focus on describing the property and its features rather than restricting who can apply.
6. Communication and First Impressions
While referencing provides the data, communication can offer additional insight.
Look for:
- Responsiveness and organisation
- Willingness to provide information
- Professional and respectful behaviour
However, these impressions should support—not replace—formal checks.
7. Work with a Letting Agent
If you’re unsure about compliance or want to reduce risk, a letting agent can help with tenant sourcing, referencing and the legal requirements involved in renting out your property.
They can:
- Handle tenant sourcing and referencing
- Ensure legal compliance
- Provide consistent processes
- Reduce the risk of disputes
For landlords in Melksham, Calne, and Devizes, this can be especially valuable in a fast-moving market.
Local Insight: Tenant Demand in Wiltshire
Across Melksham, Calne, and Devizes, tenant demand remains strong—but expectations are rising.
- Melksham: Popular with professionals and families—reliability and affordability are key
- Calne: Growing demand from first-time renters—flexibility can help attract tenants
- Devizes: Lifestyle-driven renters—well-presented homes attract strong interest
Understanding your local tenant base can help you tailor your approach while remaining compliant.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tenant is about striking the right balance between protecting your investment and treating applicants fairly and legally.
By using clear criteria, thorough referencing, and consistent processes, landlords in Melksham, Calne, and Devizes can:
- Secure reliable tenants
- Reduce risk
- Stay compliant with UK law
If you’d like help finding and referencing the right tenants for your property, our team is here to support you. Get in touch today for expert lettings advice tailored to your local market.