'Sex for rent': Help us protect renters from sexual exploitation
On January 12 2022, the House of Lords voted in support of two new laws, which would target predators who offer free or discounted accommodation in exchange for sexual acts.
'Sex for rent' is illegal. However, there has only ever been one charge. This is because the current law and guidance is inadequate and fails victims.
New laws are needed to protect renters from predators who seek to exploit them for sexual acts in return for a roof over their head.
In 2018, YouGov and Shelter estimated that a quarter of a million women had been asked for sexual favours by their landlord, in exchange for free or discounted accommodation, at some point between 2013 and 2018.
Now that these laws have been passed in the House of Lords, they must be supported by MPs in the House of Commons before they can come into effect.
Can you ask your MP to protect renters from predators who think they can get away with sexually exploiting renters in need of a home?
Generation Rent’s mission is that every home in the private rented sector is safe, secure and affordable.
Got a question? Email us [email protected]
If you’ve got a question about your rights as renter, check to see if we’ve already answered it on our Know Your Rights page.
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Reach the team:
Bismah Naqui – 07498926134
Nye Jones – 07590720116
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Individual Advice
Generation Rent can’t offer advice about individual problems. Here are a few organisations that can:
- Advice for Renters provides free or low-cost legal advice and representation from expert housing specialists.
- Shelter’s free housing advice helpline 0808 800 4444 is open 8am-8pm on weekdays and 8am-5pm on weekends, 365 days a year.
- Citizens Advice has a network of local bureaux
- A solicitor listed on Housing Law Practitioners Association
- A solicitor listed on Law Centres Network
- Safer Renting protects tenants dealing with criminal landlords, specialising in preventing illegal evictions
- Get Rent Back can help you claim back rent from a negligent landlord
- Justice for Tenants can help you claim back rent as above, and recover an unprotected deposit
You might also find quick but informal help on ACORN’s Facebook forum, and there are more suggestions on The Renters Guide.