Three-bed home in Dorset says no to children but allows pets

Residents who noted the listing of the semi-detached dwelling in Coppins Close, Ferndown, described the decision to omit children as “discrimination”.

The landlord, however, says the home is unsuitable for children as the rooms are “relatively small”.

Described by agents Southern & West Lettings, the property offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a “spacious lounge/diner” with doors leading to a private garden.

While children are not allowed, pets are considered by the landlord for an extra £25 a month on top of the £1,575 pcm rent.

Reacting to this, one woman said: “Some poor sods actually have to rehome their pets as they can’t find a home that accepts, but now it’s looking like we have to rehome our children also so we can rent a property.”

Coppins Close in Ferndown (Image: Newsquest)

Others, however, felt the landlord should be able to dictate their own rules. A man said: “Momentarily they can say no children and no pets. Don't blame them if they have had a bad experience in the past to be honest. Once bitten twice shy.”

A lettings manager from Southern and West Lettings confirmed to the Echo the landlord “does not wish to have children in the property” as they themselves do not think it is suitable.

They said it would be unsuitable due to an apparent lack of storage facilities and that, due to being a new build, its rooms were too small for a family.

According to housing charity Shelter, one in five UK parents have been unable to rent a property they wanted in the last five years because they have children.

The government’s Renters (Reform) Bill is currently going through parliament and could see the introduction of blanket bans on landlords refusing to rent to families with children or those in receipt of benefits and end no-fault evictions.

Coppins Close is located just off the B3073 Christchurch Road and is less than ten years old.