From 1 February 2016 landlords have additional obligations: to check and see if their tenants have a right to live in the UK.

Failure to comply carries a potential £3,000 fine so it is probably wise to take these regulations seriously. If you use a letting agent to find tenants they should take on this “Right to rent” check for you. Make sure you get their confirmation, that they are making the necessary check, in writing.

If you deal with your own due diligence, you will need to make checks if you:

• are a private landlord
• have a lodger
• are sub-letting a property

What checks will you have to make?

1. Check adult tenant(s) will live in the property as their only or main home
2. Ask tenant(s) for the original document(s) that show they have the right to be in the UK
3. Check the documents are valid with the tenant present
4. Make and keep copies of the documents and record the date you made the check

A draft code of practice with more information can be downloaded from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/right-to-rent-landlords-code-of-practice#history, or call if you would like our assistance.