The Home Office has published its updated Right to Rent guidance for landlords. This new guidance applies to all Right to Rent checks conducted on or after 1 October 2026.
Landlords have the option to appoint an agent to conduct Right to Rent checks on their behalf. If this responsibility is transferred in a written agreement, liability for any civil penalty will rest with the agent.
For tenants who sub-let or take in a lodger, they become responsible for carrying out Right to Rent checks on those occupiers. This responsibility can be transferred to the superior landlord if there is a written agreement for them to accept it.
The guidance outlines two main categories for occupiers based on their immigration status: those with an unlimited right to rent and those with a time-limited right to rent. British citizens, Irish citizens, and those with settled status are examples of individuals with an unlimited right to rent, requiring no follow-up checks. Individuals with time-limited permission to stay in the UK will require follow-up checks before their statutory excuse expires if they remain in occupation.