I have been trying to move with my son for a long time now, but I am constantly told no because I don't have a guarantor who earns over £50k a year. I've always paid my rent on time and have a positive reference from my landlord, but that doesn't seem to be enough. There are many people in the same position as me, particularly those on low income, who struggle to meet these unrealistic conditions set by letting agents.

These stringent guarantor requirements create an insurmountable barrier for lots of potential renters, and it's incredibly unfair. While some landlords may be lucky enough to have someone who can act as a guarantor, most people, particularly low-income families, don’t have such a person in their lives. This practice only serves to exclude people from housing they are otherwise qualified for and perpetuates inequality.

To add further clarity, a recent report by Shelter revealed that over 40% of private renters face financial difficulties or are struggling to find housing due to high guarantor income requirements. Such policies primarily discriminate against the financially vulnerable, worsening the housing crisis in the country.

Therefore, I urge estate agents to reevaluate these requirements and create more flexible, fair, and accessible policies. Allow proper references and payment history to serve as proof of reliability instead of demanding an unattainable guarantor income. This change would open doors for many families and individuals seeking stable housing and make the housing market more inclusive and just.

Please sign this petition to help bring about necessary changes to these outdated and unjust practices. Together, we can push for a fairer and more accessible rental environment for everyone.