As a property owner or landlord in England, you have legal responsibilities that go beyond collecting rent and maintaining your property. One of the most important requirements is the Right to Rent check — a process that ensures every adult tenant you let your property to has legal permission to live in the UK.
If this isn’t done correctly, it can lead to serious consequences, including large fines or even criminal charges. Whether you’re managing a single buy-to-let property or an entire portfolio, understanding this requirement is crucial for protecting both your business and your reputation.
Let’s walk through what a Right to Rent check is, why it matters, and how you can make the process smoother — especially when working with a professional agency like Ernest-Brooks International.
Why Right to Rent Checks Are Important for Landlords
The Right to Rent scheme is part of the government’s efforts to control illegal immigration. It places the responsibility on landlords and letting agents to confirm that tenants have the right to reside in the UK before they are allowed to move into a rental property.
Failing to carry out this check properly can result in:
- Civil penalties of up to £3,000 per tenant
- Damage to your business’s credibility
- Criminal charges in cases of repeated non-compliance
If you’re running a legitimate, well-managed rental business, these are risks you’ll want to avoid completely. That’s why it’s not just a formality — it’s a vital part of your rental process.
What Does the Right to Rent Check Involve?
Here’s a straightforward summary of what you, or your letting agent, need to do when carrying out this check:
| Step | What You Need to Do |
| 1. Collect documents | Ask to see original documents that prove the tenant’s right to live in the UK (e.g. passport, visa, residence permit). |
| 2. Verify identity | Confirm the document is valid and belongs to the person in front of you. This should be done in person or via live video call. |
| 3. Make copies | Keep clear copies of the documents and record the date you checked them. These records must be retained for at least 12 months after the tenancy ends. |
| 4. Monitor expiry dates | If the tenant’s right to remain is time-limited, schedule a follow-up check before it expires. |
You must complete this process for each adult tenant, regardless of whether they are listed on the tenancy agreement
What Documents Are Acceptable?
The government has provided a list of acceptable documents for Right to Rent checks. Some of the most commonly used ones include:
- A current or expired UK or Irish passport
- A permanent residence card or certificate
- A biometric residence permit
- Confirmation of settled or pre-settled status (provided digitally by the tenant)
- A visa or Home Office-issued immigration status letter
If a tenant can’t provide physical documents, you can use the government’s online Right to Rent checking service, which works with a digital share code provided by the tenant.
Common Mistakes Landlords Make
Even experienced landlords sometimes run into issues with Right to Rent checks. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Assuming someone doesn’t need a check because they “look” British — all adults must be checked, regardless of appearance or accent
- Not keeping records — you must keep a dated copy of the tenant’s ID on file
- Failing to re-check time-limited visas — if the tenant’s right to stay expires during the tenancy, a follow-up check is required
Missing any of these steps could put your property business at risk.
Make it Easier With the Right Letting Partner
If managing Right to Rent checks feels like another layer of admin you don’t have time for, working with a professional letting agency can make a big difference.
At Ernest-Brooks International, we take full responsibility for ensuring that all Right to Rent checks are completed correctly, documented securely, and updated when needed. Our experienced team knows the legal requirements inside and out, helping you stay compliant without extra stress.
Whether you’re renting out a studio flat or managing a larger property portfolio, we ensure your rental process is smooth, legal, and fully protected.
Final Thoughts for Property Owners
The Right to Rent check might seem like just another legal formality, but as a landlord, it’s your responsibility — and your risk. Taking the time to do it properly (or working with a letting agency that does it for you) can save you from major fines, legal trouble, and business disruption.
By staying proactive, organised, and compliant, you not only protect your investment but also show tenants that you’re a responsible and trustworthy landlord. And in today’s rental market, that kind of reputation goes a long way.
For professional support with lettings, legal compliance, and full-service property management, consider partnering with Ernest-Brooks International — a trusted name in London real estate.
