Tenant Checks

Finding the right tenant starts with the right checks. These checks help landlords confirm a tenant can afford the rent, will look after the property, and is legally allowed to rent in the UK.

They're not about being intrusive. They're about making sure the tenancy works for both sides from day one.

Key takeaways

• Ask for proof of ID (driving licence or passport)
• Check tenants earn at least 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent
• Confirm right to rent if you're a landlord in England (legal requirement)
• Request references from previous landlords or employers
• Consider a credit check to see payment history

Proof of ID

Landlords need to confirm tenants are who they say they are. Tenants should provide photographic ID like a driving licence or passport.

Proof of salary and employment

Tenants should earn at least 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent. It shows the tenant can afford it.

Any of these work:

• recent payslips (usually 3 months)
• bank statements showing regular income (usually 3 months)
• employment contract or employer letter (if recently started)
• SA302 form from HMRC or tax return (if self-employed)

Right to rent (England only)

Landlords can confirm right to rent by:

• checking documents that prove the tenant can live in the UK
• viewing the tenant's right to rent online if they have a share code

If the tenant is British or Irish, it's straightforward. They can prove their right to rent with:

• a British passport (current or expired)
• an Irish passport or passport card (current or expired)
• a certificate of registration or naturalisation as a British citizen

If the tenant is not British or Irish, immigration documents must be checked.

See the UK Government's guidance on Checking your tenant's right to rent.

Tenant references

References show the tenant's character and help landlords decide if they're suitable. They're not about being intrusive. They're about making sure the tenant will look after the property.

This could be:

• previous landlord reference
• employer reference
• character or personal reference from family, friends, or colleagues

Credit checks

Some landlords require a credit check. It shows whether the tenant has a history of missed or late payments and may be needed for certain landlord insurances.

See our Tenant Credit Checks guide for more.