New plans will mean landlords are responsible for checking the immigration status of any potential tenants – to be certain they have the right to be in the UK. If the landlord fails to make the checks – or turns a blind eye – they could be fined thousands of pounds.
So why is the government doing this?
Landlords
The new plans, mentioned briefly in the Queen’s speech, and outlined to a host of media sources before the speech, mean that landlords will have to check the passports and visas of prospect tenants – this is expected to specifically apply to those renting out a number of rooms to different people in the same property.
Every landlord should thoroughly reference a tenant prior to offering a tenancy; this is standard best practice which safeguards the landlord’s business. Tenant checks should include not only an identity
check, as suggested, but also whether the tenant has any County Court Judgments, possible aliases and include references from their employer and a previous landlord. Such checks should highlight any immigration irregularities.
Immigration law
The measures are contained in a new immigration law, which will also include a number of changes. These include limiting the benefits European immigrants can claim, charging temporary migrants who use the NHS, and making people live in an area for two years before they qualify for social housing.
If you are an existing landlord or potentially a first time landlord get in touch with Belvoir Sheffield today to take advantage of our vast expertise and experience to ensure you are getting the best advice. Contact us today on 0114 276 0462. or email us at sheffield@belvoirlettings.com
Source: http://bit.ly/11itnBP
