Changes to the mandatory right to rent checks which were introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic will now end on 30/09/2022, extended from 17/05/2021, 21/06/2021, 31/08/2021 and 05/04/2022.
The government has confirmed the further extension was made following the positive feedback received after its announcement enabling landlords to use Identification Document Validation Technology (‘IDVT’) to carry out digital checks on behalf of British and Irish citizens who hold a valid passport, from 6 April 2022. Further information on IDVT can be found here: Digital identity certification for right to work, right to rent and criminal record checks - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
The updated government guidance on right to rent generally is available here: Coronavirus (COVID-19): landlord right to rent checks - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
Pre-Pandemic Position
Prior to the pandemic, a landlord had to meet all prospective tenants in person and check original documents from a specific set listed by the Government.
If the landlord was satisfied as to the identity and right to rent of the prospective tenant, they were to keep a copy of the documents and could then sign a tenancy agreement with them.
These documents were to be kept for 12 months after the tenant had left the property.
Temporary Pandemic Changes
Since 30/03/2020, the Government has allowed right to rent checks to be performed by reviewing scanned copies or photos of the documents via email or phone and checking the authenticity of those documents via a video call with the prospective tenant.
The landlord must mark a copy of the scanned document/photo with the phrase “an adjusted check has been undertaken on [insert date] due to COVID-19” if satisfied the tenant has a right to rent.
Post-Pandemic Position
From 01/10/2022 (extended from 17/05/2021, 21/06/2021, 31/08/2021 and 05/04/2022), landlords will need to revert to the original pre-pandemic position for right to rent checks, as outlined above (‘Pre-Pandemic Position’).
Alternatively, landlords can use the digital system set up by the Government during the pandemic whereby a ‘share code’ is obtained by the prospective tenant and given to their potential landlord. Using the share code and prospective tenant’s date of birth, landlords will be able to verify the prospective tenant’s identity online. See here for the details: View a tenant's right to rent in England - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
It is good to note that, due to the length of the temporary pandemic changes, landlords will not be expected to carry out follow-up checks in person for any tenancies where the temporary rules were followed.
Could I be fined if I have only undertaken an adjusted check?
No, if carry out an adjusted check in the prescribed manner set out above (see ‘Temporary Pandemic Changes’) between 30/03/2020 and 30/09/2022, you have a defence against a civil penalty.
However, should a tenant with a time-limited right to rent require a follow-up check on or after 01/10/2022, you must ensure the follow-up check is undertaken in accordance with the ‘Post-Pandemic Position’, also outlined above.
Does this mean I cannot carry out face to face checks?
If there are opportunities to safely carry out the standard right to rent checks (see ‘Post-Pandemic Position’) in advance of the temporary pandemic changes coming to an end, then you can and should.
Does the criminal offence remain in force?
Yes – it remains an offence to knowingly let property to an illegal migrant.
If you need support in relation to any residential landlord law related issue, then get in touch with Rebecca at Landlord Support for some free and friendly initial advice followed by fixed fee support throughout your case:
01704 790 532
rebecca@landlord-support.co.uk
www.landlord-support.co.uk