Right to Rent Checks When Moving In (England)

When you rent a home in England you may be asked to provide documents so your landlord can check your "right to rent". As a tenant, it helps to know what checks are lawful, which documents are acceptable, and how to protect your privacy during move-in. This guide explains the steps landlords should take, what you should bring when signing a tenancy, and what to do if a check is carried out incorrectly or feels discriminatory. It also points to official forms and the tribunal that hears housing disputes so you can take action if needed. Read the practical examples and follow the how-to steps to make moving in smoother and safer.

What to expect at move-in

Landlords in England normally carry out Right to Rent checks before a tenancy starts to make sure every adult has the legal right to live in the UK. A straightforward check asks to see original identity documents, or an online check via the Home Office checking service. If a landlord follows the correct steps they can gain a "statutory excuse" against a civil penalty for renting to someone not permitted to rent. ^[1]

Tenant checklist for moving in

• Bring original identity documents the landlord requests (passport, biometric residence permit or other acceptable documents).
• Agree a clear move-in date so checks are completed before you collect keys or start the tenancy.
• Ask for a written record of the check and the date it was done, and keep a copy for your records.

Which documents are commonly acceptable

Acceptable documents include valid passports, a biometric residence permit, or Home Office online check evidence. Landlords must follow the government guidance on acceptable documents; do not hand over copies until you understand why they are needed and how they will be stored. ^[1]

Official forms and notices tenants should know

While Right to Rent itself is a Home Office process, tenancy enforcement and eviction use different forms. The most relevant prescribed form for possession in assured shorthold tenancies is the Section 21 prescribed form (Form 6A), which landlords must use correctly when seeking possession. For practical tenant examples, see the official GOV.UK guidance on eviction notices and prescribed forms. https://www.gov.uk/evicting-tenants

If a check goes wrong or feels discriminatory

If you believe a landlord made an incorrect check, asked for inappropriate documents, or treated you differently because of nationality or ethnicity, you can raise the issue informally first and then use formal routes if needed.

• Contact the landlord or letting agent in writing asking for an explanation and a copy of the check record.
• Request your personal data and how it was used; the landlord should explain retention and deletion policies.
• If you cannot resolve the issue, you may pursue a complaint to the tribunal or court; the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) hears many housing disputes in England. https://www.gov.uk/courts-tribunals/first-tier-tribunal-property-chamber

FAQ

Do landlords have to check my documents before I move in?

Yes. Landlords should check each adult tenant's documents before the tenancy starts to meet their legal duties under Right to Rent rules.

Can a landlord copy my passport?

A landlord may copy documents if you consent, but they must explain why, how copies are stored, and how long they will keep them.

What if I am refused a tenancy because of nationality?

You can ask for a written reason and may have grounds to complain if the treatment seems discriminatory.

How-To

1. Gather original identity documents requested by the landlord or agent.
2. Allow the landlord to inspect originals; ask them to record the check date and method.
3. If an online Home Office check is used, keep the result reference or screenshot supplied to you.
4. Store your own copy of the record and contact the landlord in writing if anything looks incorrect.

Key Takeaways

• Right to Rent checks are routine and should be done before move-in.
• Keep your own copies of check records and dates for future reference.
• If you face problems, raise them in writing and consider tribunal or legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• https://www.gov.uk/check-tenant-right-to-rent-documents
• https://www.gov.uk/evicting-tenants
• https://www.gov.uk/courts-tribunals/first-tier-tribunal-property-chamber

1. [1] GOV.UK: Check a tenant's right to rent
2. [2] GOV.UK: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
3. [3] legislation.gov.uk: Housing Act 1988