Landlords allegedly placing ‘Muslim-only’ apartment ads in violation of national equality act, report finds

(SeaPRwire) –   A recent local media investigation indicates that certain landlords in England are reportedly advertising “Muslim-only” accommodation online.

The Telegraph’s inquiry uncovered alleged advertisements on platforms like Facebook, Gumtree, and Telegram in London, which included phrases such as “only for Muslims,” “for 2 Muslim boys or 2 Muslim girls,” and “Muslims preferred.”

Additionally, some advertisements targeted Punjabi and Gujarati speakers, and certain job postings on these platforms were exclusively for men.

Listings were also found specifying “Hindu only,” alongside others that appeared to use religious undertones, such as “The house should be alcohol and smoke-free.”

On Facebook, Roshan Properties, a company, reportedly published numerous listings indicating “prefer Muslim boy,” “one double room is available for Muslims,” and “suitable for Punjabi boy.”

These advertisements contravene Britain’s Equality Act 2010, which forbids discrimination based on religion or belief, race, and other protected attributes.

Robert Jenrick, Reform UK’s economic spokesman, informed The Telegraph that “These adverts are disgusting and anti-British. It goes without saying that there would be a national outrage if the tables were turned.” He added, “All forms of racism are unacceptable, and no religious group should get a special exemption to discriminate in this way.”

When questioned by The Telegraph about a “Muslims only” room advertised for $1,150 and its availability to individuals of other faiths, one landlord reportedly responded with “go away.”

A Gumtree spokesperson informed the newspaper that the company maintains clear policies against unlawful discrimination.

The spokesperson stated, “We take reports of inappropriate listings very seriously.” They further clarified, “The ads referenced appear to relate to private rooms within shared homes, where existing occupants may express preferences about who they live with. This is different from renting out an entire property, which is subject to stricter rules under the Equality Act.”