Right to Rent Checks: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how landlords and agents in England must verify a tenant's legal right to live in the country before granting a tenancy.
Right to Rent Checks are a legal requirement for landlords and agents in England to ensure their tenants have a legal right to reside in the country.
Who it's for
This requirement applies to all landlords and letting agents operating in England.
What you get
By completing these checks, you receive the legal clearance needed to grant a tenancy to a new tenant.
What it costs you
The primary cost is the time required to carefully verify a tenant's identity and residency documents. If you fail to comply with these regulations, you may face significant fines.
The catch to know
Many people mistakenly believe that a UK passport is the only way to prove residency. However, digital share codes are now the standard method for verifying a person's status.
How to apply
- Request the necessary identification documents from your potential tenant.
- Verify the documents in person or use a digital share code if applicable.
- Keep records of the checks to prove you followed the rules.
- Visit the official portal for guidance on acceptable documents: https://www.gov.uk/check-tenant-right-to-rent-documents