This update replaces previous guidance issued on 20 April 2021.

The temporary COVID-19 adjusted right to rent checks will now end on 20 June 2021, and from 21 June 2021 landlords will revert to face to face and physical document checks as set out in legislation and guidance. This is aligned with the easing of lockdown restrictions and social distancing measures, as set out in the government’s roadmap for England.

The following temporary changes were made on 30 March 2020 and remain in place until 20 June 2021 (inclusive):

  • checks can currently be carried out over video calls
  • tenants can send scanned documents or a photo of documents for checks using email or a mobile app, rather than sending originals
  • landlords should use the Landlord Checking Service if a prospective or existing tenant cannot provide any of the accepted documents

Checks continue to be necessary and you must continue to check the prescribed documents set out in Landlords Guide to Right to Rent or use the online right to rent checking service. It remains an offence to knowingly rent to a person who does not have the right to rent in the UK.

End of temporary adjustments

The temporary adjustments to Right to Rent checks due to COVID-19 are ending. From 21 June 2021 you must either:

See: Coronavirus (COVID-19): landlord right to rent checks – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)