What is Right to Rent and how does it affect you as a landlord?

The Right to Rent regulation was brought in by the Immigration Act 2014. It requires that all landlords with privately rented properties in England confirm that tenants renting their properties are legally permitted to live in the UK.

Failure to comply with Right to Rent legislation can result in some pretty hefty fines. The Government has introduced a new Right to Rent code of practice as well as increased fines for non-compliance. These changes come into force on 13th February 2024. 

Landlords who knowingly rent properties to illegal immigrants can face fines of up to £5,000 per lodger and £10,000 per occupier for a first breach, with increased penalties for repeat offences.

How do I check my tenant’s Right to Rent?

If your tenant is a British or Irish citizen you will need to ask them to show you either their passport, driving licence, UK birth or adoption certificate (see Gov.uk for full list of documents https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/right-to-rent-document-checks-a-user-guide).

If your tenant is from anywhere else in the world they will need to provide a Share Code and their date of birth. You can then use the Home Office online service to check their immigration status.

You should call the Landlord Helpline if you need help with a check on 0300 790 6268.