Right to Rent checks for landlords
Before a tenancy starts in England, you must check that every adult who will live in the home has the right to rent.
Checked against the sources below on 21 October 2026. England only.
In short
- Check every tenant and lodger aged 18 or over, whether or not they are named on the agreement.
- Check all new tenants, not only people you think may not be British citizens.
- Do the check before the tenancy starts. If someone has time-limited permission to stay, do it within the 28 days before the start.
- If their right to rent is time-limited, you’ll need a follow-up check.
- Civil penalties are up to £10,000 per occupier for a first breach and up to £20,000 for repeat breaches.
Where the rules apply
Right to Rent applies in England only. Some homes are exempt, including social housing, student halls, care homes, hostels and refuges, and leases of 7 years or more.
Evidence kept with the tenancy
Upload each tenant’s Right to Rent documents to their tenancy in LieuTenant, alongside the agreement and the deposit certificate, so the evidence is there if you are ever asked for it.
Start freeFree for any number of homes. No card needed.
Questions
Do I need to check British citizens?
Yes. You must check all adult occupiers, not only people you think may not be British citizens.
Sources
- Check your tenant’s right to rent (GOV.UK)
- Home Office increases Right to Rent penalties (The Negotiator)
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change; check the sources or a professional before acting.