Recent reports have shown that over 400 fines have been issued to landlords who have failed to meet their obligations under the Right to Rent scheme, which came into force in February 2016. Landlords are required to check whether potential tenants have the right to live in the UK. More than £265,000 in fines have been levied for breaches of these rules. I thought I’d give you a recap with regard to the renting process.
How does this affect me, my tenants and my properties?
The main aim of the Right to Rent act is to minimise the number of illegal residents residing in the UK. The law states that private landlords must check that all potential tenants have the right to live in the UK before allowing them to rent their property. Landlords must carry out checks on all adults who will be living in the property that are over the age of 18, regardless of whether they are named on the tenancy agreement or not.
Who needs to make Right to Rent checks?
Private landlords
Anyone who has a lodger
Anyone who is sub-letting a property
Agent appointed by a landlord
If you are a landlord who is appointing an agent to carry out the checks on your behalf, it should be stated in your written agreement that the agent is responsible for the checks and any necessary follow up checks.
What happens if the checks aren’t carried out?
If right to rent and follow up checks are not carried out, you will be fined. This is also known as a civil penalty and can cost up to £3000
Our 4 Top Tips to remember
Check all tenants over the age of 18
Make copies of original documentation and kee
p them securely
Ensure you are accepting correct documentation
Do follow-up checks where necessary and on time-limited tenants
If you require any assistance or further information on this subject please don’t hesitate to contact RF&O or visit https://www.gov.uk/check-tenant-right-to-rent-documents.