Before renting a property in the UK, you’ll need to provide information and documents proving you’ll be a good tenant. Even an adult living with you who will also treat this address as their main residence needs to provide valid proof. Beyond a personal identity check, you’ll be asked for proof that you can afford the property and will be a reliable tenant. Below are the documents typically requested.
Documents Commonly Requested When Renting in the UK
- Proof of identity (such as a passport, driving licence, or BRP)
- Proof of employment
- Bank statements
- A guarantor (if needed)
- Legal residency status
- Credit record
Proof of Identity
When you start or renew a tenancy, your landlord or letting agent will ask to see your immigration document or passport. They’ll also ask to see the documents of any other adult who will be living with you. They do this to check whether you have the right to live in the UK and rent a property — this is known as a “right to rent check.”
Proof of Employment
This is mainly to show that you have a stable income and that it will continue. You can also ask your employer to provide a “character reference” showing that you are reliable.
Bank Statements
If you’re asked to provide a recent bank statement to show your income, redact your account number for security. If you’re self-employed, you may need to provide a copy of your business account statement along with a letter from your accountant.
Guarantor
A guarantor isn’t always required, but if you haven’t rented before, you may be asked to provide one. A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay the rent if you don’t — you can ask a parent or another family member to do this.
Credit Check
Your letting agent, and some landlords, will ask you to undergo a credit check to see whether you’ve had trouble paying bills in the past. They must get your permission first. Private landlords carry out credit checks less often, since they can typically afford to take longer to let the property.
If you have a poor credit history, it’s best to be upfront about it. If you’re renting through a letting agent, do this before you pay them any money — if you don’t pass the credit check, you may not get your money back. Your landlord or letting agent shouldn’t force you to pay for the credit check yourself.
If you don’t pass the credit check, explain why you think that happened. If you know you can afford the rent, tell your landlord or letting agent. If you’re willing to pay a higher deposit, more rent in advance, or can find a guarantor, they may still be willing to rent to you.
If You Can’t Provide Personal Proof
Even if you can’t provide personal proof, you may still be able to rent. Explain to the landlord or letting agent why you can’t provide it. If you’ve paid rent on time in the past, show them your tenancy agreement and your rent book or bank statements as evidence. Also, if this is your first time renting in the UK and you don’t have a fixed income, your landlord may be able to offer other options — for example, they might ask you to pay 6 or 12 months’ rent in full upfront, or provide a guarantor.
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Sources
GOV.UK – Private renting: https://www.gov.uk/private-renting/document-checks
