The landlord can request that a potential tenant provide information that allows them to determine if each applicant can become a tenant. Questions about the monthly rent, the dates the tenant lived, and the property's address are useful to confirm that you're talking to the right landlord and learn the real story. Find out what documents to ask from tenants and who should provide you with information if you work with multiple roommates or family members. If the tenant does not have the correct documents or a valid participation code, you must use the landlord's check service to request a check from the Ministry of the Interior on the right to rent.
It is essential for landlords to focus on the facts when conducting a right to rent check. Very often, a referred person will be willing to give their opinion, but it is important to get them to provide specific details such as whether the tenant usually pays rent late or earns the salary indicated on the application form. A selection service can help landlords make an informed decision, but it is also important to know what documents to ask from tenants in order to verify the information. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines of up to £3,000 for each tenant or even imprisonment. British or Irish citizens can prove their right to rent with physical documents which can be checked by landlords themselves or through an online identity service provider (IDSP).
It is also advisable for landlords to contact previous landlords of potential tenants in order to discuss their experience and gain more insight into whether they would be a good fit for their property. Non-British or Irish citizens usually prove their right to rent with their original immigration documents. Evicting an unsuitable tenant can be costly, so it is important for landlords to know their credit score and what financial documents they should request from them in support of their application. The application asks for details about the tenant's job position and salary, but it is necessary for landlords to follow up and verify that they have been provided with accurate information. Unfortunately, some tenants may provide false references, so it is important for landlords to know if a candidate is being dishonest with landlord or employer references. If a tenant can prove their right to rent with an accepted original document, landlords cannot insist that they use an online service instead.
It may also be helpful for landlords to ask tenants why they are moving from their last place in order to get an indication of how they are treating the property and if they can afford rent.
