As a landlord in the UK, ensuring your tenants have the legal right to rent is not just a good practice—it’s a legal requirement. But fear not! Right to Rent checks are simpler than they sound, and we’re here to guide you through the process step-by-step.

Understanding the Basics: Right to Rent checks are part of the UK government’s immigration control measures. It’s your responsibility to ensure every adult tenant has the legal right to rent your property. This means checking the immigration status of all adults aged 18 and above who will call your property their main home.

Collecting the Right Documents: Ask your prospective tenants for original documents that prove their right to live in the UK. This could be a UK passport, a national ID card, a valid visa, or a Home Office immigration status document. Remember, these documents must be originals, so no photocopies here!

Verification is Key: Once you have the documents, check them carefully. Ensure they are genuine and belong to the tenant. Look out for signs of tampering and make sure the photos match the person standing in front of you.

Record Keeping: Make clear copies of each document and note the date you checked them. Keep these records for the duration of the tenancy and for one year after it ends. This is crucial for compliance and your peace of mind.

Follow-Up Checks: For tenants with time-limited status, remember to conduct follow-up checks before their right to rent expires. If their status changes, you may need to notify the Home Office.

By following these steps, you can protect yourself from legal penalties and ensure a smooth, responsible renting process. And if you ever need a helping hand, remember that we at Sawyer & Co are always here to support you with your property needs. Happy letting!

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