A new Right to Rent identity validation and storage system has been launched by industry supplier Canopy, in partnership with tech firm IDnow.

The verification, via the Canopy app, allows applicants to prove they can live in the UK by submitting the correct information in the form of another approved ID and a clear video selfie.  

Once complete, the ID is either immediately approved, or the validation may be delayed if fraud is suspected. Applicants are able to see the state of their ID verification within the app.

Right to Rent checks have traditionally been carried out in person, with a requirement for prospective tenants to provide original ID documents such as passports or visas. 

However, the Home Office announced in March 2020 that temporary measures – likely to last for the duration of the pandemic – would be introduced allowing agents and landlords to carry out checks via video call. 

The current system also allows copies of ID documents to be checked rather than originals.  The agent or landlord still needs to see the applicant in person or over video call, as per UK government rules. 

Then the agent or landlord confirms these checks have been done by clicking on the complete the Right to Rent section and confirm tenancy start date in HQ and add the tenancy end date. After 12 months, the documents are deleted.

A Canopy spokesperson says: ”Our new Right to Rent service minimises in person contact and saves time for letting agents, landlords and tenants alike. Online identity checks offer a secure and streamlined digital first process for everyone, and we are thrilled to offer this service to help keep everyone safe and well at this time.”