What is a Right to Rent Check?
If you’re letting out a property in England, you must carry out a Right to Rent check before the tenancy begins. It’s a legal requirement under the Immigration Act 2014. Landlords are responsible for confirming that every adult tenant has the legal right to live in the UK.
If you’re a tenant, you must be prepared to provide the correct documents to prove your right to rent before moving in.
Failing to complete these checks properly can result in fines of up to £3,000 per tenant – and in some cases, criminal penalties.
Who needs a Right to Rent check?
All adults aged 18 or over who will live at the property must be checked. This includes:
- UK citizens
- EU/EEA nationals
- Students
- Visa holders
- Lodgers or subtenants
It applies even if they’re not named on the tenancy agreement.
What documents are needed?
You must check and copy either:
- A valid UK or Irish passport
- A biometric residence permit
- A share code and date of birth for online checks
- Other acceptable documents from the official government list
If a tenant provides a share code, use the Home Office online checking service to verify.
How to carry out the check
- Meet in person or by video call
Check the documents or online status while the person is present. - Confirm the documents are genuine
Names, photos and dates must match. The document must not be expired unless still valid. - Take and store copies
Keep dated copies securely for at least 12 months after the tenancy ends.
Time-limited permissions
If a tenant has a time-limited right to rent, you must re-check them before the expiry date. Failing to do this can lead to civil penalties.
Penalties for landlords
Letting to someone without the right to rent can lead to:
- A civil penalty of up to £3,000 per adult
- A criminal offence if done knowingly
- Difficulty evicting the tenant later on
Working with a professional agent like us removes this risk – we carry out all checks on your behalf and store the records.
How we handle Right to Rent
At EBI, we:
- Complete all checks before move-in
- Verify share codes for online results
- Keep secure copies for compliance
- Monitor expiry dates and follow up when needed
Our landlords stay protected and compliant without lifting a finger.
Get expert help
Letting a property involves strict rules – Right to Rent is just one. We handle the paperwork, legal checks and documentation from start to finish.
Contact our lettings team to find out more or start letting today.
Useful links
