What is Right to Rent?

Right to Rent is the UK Home Office scheme requiring private landlords in England to check that all prospective adult tenants have a legal right to rent before granting a tenancy agreement. Landlords must verify original identity documents, use the Home Office online checking service for those with e-visas, or use a certified Identity Service Provider. Repeat checks must be carried out for those with time-limited leave to remain. Landlords who fail to carry out proper checks, or who continue renting after becoming aware of an illegal tenant, face civil penalties of up to £20,000 per occupier for a first breach and unlimited fines thereafter, plus potential criminal prosecution.