What is one of the legal grounds for refusing a tenancy application?

The correct answer highlights a crucial aspect of fair housing laws, which are designed to prevent discrimination in housing. Legal protections exist that prohibit refusing a tenancy application based on certain characteristics, such as age, gender, race, religion, or any other status protected by these laws. This means that a landlord cannot refuse to rent to someone simply because of these factors, ensuring equal access to housing opportunities for everyone.

In contrast, personal preferences regarding a tenant's hobbies or a general preference for tenants with previous homeowner experience do not constitute legal bases for denial under fair housing laws. Similarly, while a tenant's ability to pay rent is a legitimate concern for landlords, refusing an application solely based on their payment method—like paying rent in cash—is not a lawful reason to deny tenancy. Thus, the emphasis on protecting against discrimination based on age, gender, and background is a fundamental principle in housing law.