Govt warns landlords and agents against Right to Rent discrimination
Summary
The Home Office has updated its Right to Rent guidance to reinforce anti-discrimination requirements for landlords and letting agents, with the changes applying to residential tenancies starting on or after 1 October 2026 in England. The guidance also reflects the increased use of eVisas and digital identity checks, while warning that inconsistent or biased checking processes can lead to civil penalties.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors involved in lettings, compliance or advisory work need to understand the updated checking requirements and the discrimination risks associated with Right to Rent processes. The guidance may affect how landlords and agents evidence compliance and manage tenant selection procedures.
Key points
- Updated Right to Rent guidance must be followed for tenancies starting on or after 1 October 2026 in England.
- Landlords and agents must avoid discrimination based on nationality, immigration status, ethnicity, accent or time spent in the UK.
- The guidance addresses eVisas, digital identity checks and automated checking processes.
- Civil penalties can reach up to £10,000 per occupier for a first breach and £20,000 per occupier for repeat breaches.
- Applicants with a time-limited right to rent must not be treated less favourably.
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