As a landlord, you’re legally obligated to check that every adult who will be living in your property has the right to rent in the UK. This applies not only to those named on the tenancy agreement but to all occupiers aged 18 or over—including family members, carers, or lodgers. Even older teenagers may require checks, so it’s important to be diligent.
For tenants who are non-UK nationals, they must provide documentation that proves they are legally in the country according to immigration laws.
How to Perform the Checks
- For UK and Irish nationals, if they have a valid passport, you can use approved digital identity verification technology (IDVT) to simplify the process. This ensures you meet compliance standards without having to physically handle documents.
- For non-UK tenants, you must physically see their original documents in person. If their documentation is currently with the Home Office due to an ongoing application or appeal, you can use the Landlord’s Checking Service to confirm their status.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to carry out the correct Right to Rent checks can have serious consequences. You could face fines of up to £10,000 for a first offence, and up to £20,000 for any subsequent breaches. In severe cases, landlords can even be at risk of criminal prosecution.
Staying compliant is not only about avoiding penalties, but also about protecting yourself from potential legal risks that can disrupt your rental business.
Avoid Discrimination Pitfalls
It’s important to carry out these checks fairly and consistently. The law is clear that landlords must not discriminate against prospective tenants, even if their checks may be more complex to perform. Ensuring a fair and non-discriminatory process will keep you on the right side of both legal and ethical standards.
Are You Confident in Your Compliance?
Navigating legal requirements like Right to Rent can be time-consuming and complicated, but we’re here to help. Our team ensures that landlords like you stay compliant with all the latest regulations, offering peace of mind and helping you avoid costly mistakes.
If you have any questions or need support with tenant checks or property management, feel free to get in touch. We’re always here to assist you with every aspect of your landlord responsibilities.