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Right to Rent Checks Explained
What documents you need to provide, your rights during checks, and what landlords cannot ask for.
8 min read readLast updated: 1 March 2024
Landlords in England must check that tenants have the right to rent before letting a property. This is a legal requirement, but there are rules about how it's done.
What You Need to Provide
- UK or Irish passport - proves unlimited right to rent
- EU Settlement Scheme status - check via share code
- Biometric residence permit or card
- Valid visa with permission to rent
Your Rights
- Landlord must check ALL adult occupants, not just some
- Cannot discriminate based on nationality or ethnicity
- Can use online share code service for digital proof
- Must be given reasonable time to provide documents
If a landlord refuses to rent to you because of your nationality (not your immigration status), this may be discrimination.
Official Sources
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