England guide · Home Office guidance checked 19 October 2026

Right to Rent checks in 2026: a record-keeping guide

Before an adult begins occupying a rented home as their only or main home in England, identify the prescribed check route, complete every required step and retain the permitted evidence securely. The method depends on the person’s circumstances.

1. Identify every adult occupier

The scheme can apply to adults aged 18 or over who will use the property as their only or main home, even when they are not named in a written agreement. Apply the process consistently rather than selecting people according to appearance, accent, nationality or assumed immigration status.

2. Use the prescribed route

The recognised routes include a manual document check, the Home Office online service or an eligible registered digital verification service. An ordinary referencing or identity check does not automatically establish the required statutory excuse. If someone holds only an eVisa, the Home Office guide says to use its online Right to Rent checking service.

3. Get the timing right

A check for someone with an unlimited Right to Rent may be completed before the residential agreement is entered into. A check for a time-limited Right to Rent must be undertaken and recorded no earlier than 28 calendar days before the tenancy agreement is entered into. Follow the official exceptions and process where a prospective occupier is outside the UK.

4. Match the result to the person

For an online check, use a Right to Rent share code and date of birth through the official landlord service, verify that the result and photograph relate to the prospective occupier, confirm the permission shown, and note whether a follow-up check is required.

5. Retain and later destroy the evidence

The Home Office guide says to retain the prescribed evidence securely for the duration of the tenancy agreement and for at least one year after it ends, then destroy it securely. Keep the check date with the evidence so it can be produced promptly if requested.

6. Schedule follow-up checks where required

A time-limited result may require a new check before the statutory excuse expires. Record the official follow-up date and act before it. If the occupier cannot provide evidence, follow the Home Office guidance on the Landlord Checking Service and any report that may be required.