Government refuses to share Renters’ Rights Bill court assessment
The government has refused to release a key piece of evidence on the impact of the Renters’ Rights Bill just weeks before it could be signed into law.
Temporary rules brought in during the COVID-19 pandemic – including the option to check documents remotely over a video call, or accept scanned copies via e-mail – will expire.
From 6 April, landlords and agents conducting Right to Rent checks themselves will again have to check original (not e-mailed) documents in person (not remotely). Alternatively, they can check the tenant’s status using the Home Office’s online checking system, so long as the tenant has an identity document with a compatible share code. Biometric residence permits must be checked through the online system, not in person.
Agents and landlords in England must carry out Right to Rent checks on all prospective tenants, whether or not they believe that they are British citizens. Failing to carry out checks can have severe consequences: unknowingly renting a property to someone who is not allowed to stay in the UK can carry a civil penalty of up to £3,000.
Other letting agency headlines
Estate agency adopts robot viewings assistant tried out during COVID – The Negotiator
Suspended sentence for agent embezzling £50,000 – Letting Agent Today
Estate agency launches its own beer – Property Industry Eye
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