ALL private residential landlords now have to check new tenants have the right to be in the UK before renting out their property.

And a Worcester property lawyer is warning that fines could follow if things go wrong.

The Immigration Act 2014 prohibits private landlords of residential properties from allowing certain people to occupy those properties based on the immigration status of the occupiers. Landlords now have to check the status of prospective tenants, and other authorised occupiers, to ascertain whether those parties have the right to occupy the premises before granting a tenancy. Landlords must also make sure that someone’s right to occupy the premises does not lapse. Breaching the prohibition could lead to a civil penalty of up to £3,000.

Colin Gordon, managing partner at Gordon Lutton Solicitors, said: "This is a significant responsibility for landlords. While the Home Office states that there is nothing for landlords to worry about, as their obligation amounts to carrying out ‘simple documentary checks’, it is likely that landlords will inevitably feel under pressure to ensure they do not make mistakes and risk a fine. The landlords responsibility does not just end after the initial check, if any document presented as proof of a right to remain in the UK has an expiry date, the landlord will need to conduct a follow-up check at the appropriate time. I would urge all landlords to ensure they have a full understanding of their obligations, which came into force at the beginning of February."

A person does not have a right to rent if they require leave to enter or remain in the UK and do not have it, or they have leave but it is subject to conditions that prevent them from occupying the premises.