What is a Right to Rent Check?

What Is a Right to Rent Check?

When renting an apartment in the UK, especially in bustling cities like London, you might hear about a "Right to Rent" check. This process is a crucial step for landlords and tenants alike, ensuring compliance with UK law. Whether you’re a local or an international renter, understanding Right to Rent checks can make your rental journey smoother.

The Legal Background

Right to Rent checks were introduced under the Immigration Act 2014 to prevent illegal renting in the UK. This legislation requires landlords and letting agents to verify that all adult tenants have the legal right to reside in the country. Failure to comply can result in penalties for landlords and agents.

What Does a Right to Rent Check Involve?

A Right to Rent check is a straightforward process that involves the following steps:

1. Checking Identification Documents
   • Renters must provide valid ID or documents proving their right to reside in the UK. Examples include:
     • UK passport
     • Biometric residence permit
     • European Economic Area (EEA) ID cards
     • A valid visa or Home Office documentation
2. Record Keeping
   • Landlords or agents must take copies of the documents and keep them for the duration of the tenancy.
3. Follow-Up Checks
   • For tenants with time-limited visas, landlords must perform follow-up checks before the visa’s expiry date.
4. Online Verification
   • International renters can use the UK Government’s online checking service to confirm their status.

Who Needs a Right to Rent Check?

Right to Rent checks apply to all adult renters in England. This includes:

• UK Citizens: A passport or driving license is typically sufficient.
• EU Citizens: Post-Brexit, EU renters may need to provide proof of settled or pre-settled status, or provide their share code
• International Renters: Renters from outside the UK need to provide visas or other approved documentation.

Exemptions include stays in:

• social housing
• a care home, hospice or hospital
• hostels
• student accommodation

How Does This Affect International Renters?

For international renters moving to London, the Right to Rent check can be a new and unfamiliar process. Common challenges include:

• Document Preparation: Ensure you have valid documentation before arriving in the UK.
• Delays in Verification: Start the rental process early to account for any potential delays in checks. For those who are only allowed to stay in the UK for a limited time, their Right to Rent check needs to be done in the 28 days before the start of the tenancy.

Tips for International Renters

• Bring all required documents to viewings.
• Use the online Right to Rent tool to confirm your eligibility.
• Work with letting agents experienced in helping international renters.

Responsibilities of Landlords and Agents

Landlords and letting agents are legally required to:

• Perform Right to Rent checks for all tenants aged 18 or over.
• Retain records of the checks for the duration of the tenancy.
• Conduct follow-up checks if a tenant’s right to rent is time-limited.

Failure to comply can result in fines or criminal charges.

Conclusion

Right to Rent checks are a key part of renting in the UK, designed to ensure legal compliance and protect all parties involved. While the process may seem daunting, especially for international renters, preparation and understanding can make it manageable.

At HomeQuarters, we specialise in assisting international and local renters with premium apartments in central London. Our team is here to guide you through every step, from paperwork to move-in day.

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