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Up to date with Right to Rent? News Post Image 30th January 2024

Up to date with Right to Rent?

by Paul Howe

No doubt you will be aware of the requirement under the Immigration Act 2014 from previous blogs that I have sent out, however an important update to the requirements has been announced, introducing much higher fines for non-compliance.

Below is an article I read online today which perfectly explains the update in the regulations. I would advise all self-managing landlords to familiarise themselves with their requirements under the Immigration Act 2014 to avoid the ever-increasing fines.

If you are in doubt as to what you are required to do, then please get in touch. We have a team of vastly experienced and qualified lettings staff available to assist, and for a limited period of time we are offering a FREE 15 minute compliance check for your portfolio, to help ensure that you are compliant in all aspects including Right to Rent.

To book your FREE 15 minute compliance check please click here>>

I hope this article is of use to you.

Yours sincerely,

Paul Buck MARLA, MNAEA

Director of Sales & Lettings

01206 771214

[email protected]

Property Industry Eye 29.01.2024

All landlords and their agents have a legal responsibility under the Immigration Act 2014 legislation to prevent those without lawful immigration status from accessing the private rented sector

Landlords and agents who knowingly rent their properties to unauthorised migrants will currently face penalties of up to £5,000 per lodger and £10,000 per occupier for a first breach, up from £80 and £1,000 respectively. Repeat breaches could cost them up to £10,000 per lodger, up from £500, and a maximum of £20,000 per occupier, up from £3,000. But that is all about to change.

As of 13 February, the penalties for violating Right to Rent rules will increase significantly from £80 per lodger and £1,000 per occupier for a first breach to a substantial £5,000 per lodger and £10,000 per occupier. Repeat breaches will incur even steeper fines, reaching up to £10,000 per lodger and £20,000 per occupier, a substantial increase from the previous £500 and £3,000 respectively.

Agents and landlords are advised to familiarize themselves with the new draft code of practice, currently available in draft form and scheduled to take effect next month. This updated version outlines the heightened penalties for failing to comply with Right to Rent requirements, underscoring the government’s commitment to enforcing these regulations.

Landlords and agents are reminded that, in addition to the hefty fines, failure to check the occupier’s right to rent status may result in potential imprisonment. With the looming changes, it is imperative for landlords to stay informed and ensure full compliance with the revised regulations to avoid severe financial consequences and legal ramifications.

The code of practice for Right to Rent, issued by the Home Office, can be accessed here.

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