Dagenham landlords to be given access to new digital identity checking technology

New digital identity checking technology will help Dagenham landlords carry out right to rent checks, it has been announced.

The scheme – which is set to come into effect on 06 April this year – will save property owners hours of administrative work every year.

Under current regulations, landlords are required to physically inspect documents, such as passports, to prove that potential tenants are lawfully allowed to reside in the UK.

But from 06 April 2022, certified identity service providers (IDSPs) will be able to use Identification Document Validation Technology (IDVT) to conduct right to work checks and right to rent checks on behalf of British and Irish citizens.

This will enable landlords to verify the identity of tenants remotely – reducing the risk of identity fraud and significantly reducing hours spent undertaking identity checks.

Brookings lettings agents will also be able to use IDVT, speeding up the process for our clients.

Commenting on the new technology, Minister for Safe and Legal Migration, Kevin Foster said: “Online checks make it quicker, easier and more secure for employers and landlords to carry out right to rent and right to work checks and stop those looking to abuse our immigration system.

“These changes will make the checks more secure, quicker to do and will better support remote working practices.”

Minister of State for Media, Data, and Digital Infrastructure, Julia Lopez, added: “Trusted and secure ways for people to confidently verify themselves online will be a game-changer and offer an alternative to time-consuming and complex paper-based processes.”

For help and advice with related matters, please get in touch with our Director, Michael O'Brien, at michael@brookings.co.uk.