Right to rent checks introduced for landlords

The government has announced that from 1 February 2016, all private landlords in England will have to check new tenants have the right to be in the UK before renting out their property.

Landlords who fail to check a potential tenant’s status will face penalties of up to £3,000 per tenant.

Landlords should check identity documents for all new tenants and take copies.  

If a potential tenant has an outstanding immigration application or appeal with the Home Office, landlords can conduct a check via the Landlords Checking Service.