If you are planning to rent a property in the UK, you may be asked to provide a Right to Rent share code. This is an essential part of the tenant verification process, especially for individuals who are not UK or Irish citizens.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a Right to Rent share code is, how to get it, and how to use it—step by step.
What Is a Right to Rent Share Code?
A Right to Rent share code is a temporary digital code issued by the UK government. It allows landlords or letting agents to check your legal right to rent property in England.
Instead of showing physical documents, tenants can securely share their immigration status online using this code.
Key Features:
- Valid for 90 days
- Can be used multiple times within validity
- Protects your personal data
- Replaces physical document checks (in most cases)
Who Needs a Right to Rent Share Code?
You need a share code if you:
- Are not a UK or Irish citizen
- Have a visa, settled status, or pre-settled status
- Hold a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or digital immigration status
If you are a UK or Irish citizen, you usually do not need a share code.
Why Is It Important?
Landlords in England are legally required to check tenants' immigration status under the Right to Rent scheme.
Without a valid check:
- Landlords can face fines or penalties
- Tenants may be refused rental applications
So, having your share code ready can speed up the renting process.
How to Get a Right to Rent Share Code
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Go to the Official Government Website
Visit the UK government’s “Prove your right to rent” service.
Step 2: Log In
You’ll need one of the following:
- BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
- BRC (Biometric Residence Card)
- Passport or national identity card
Step 3: Verify Your Identity
You may receive a security code via SMS or email.
Step 4: Generate Share Code
Once logged in, select:
“Prove your right to rent”
You will then receive your 9-character share code.
How to Use a Right to Rent Share Code
Using the code is simple:
- Share the code with your landlord or letting agent
- Provide your date of birth
- The landlord enters the details on the government website
- They can view your rental eligibility status
What Information Can Landlords See?
When a landlord uses your share code, they can access:
- Your name and photo
- Immigration status
- Type of permission to stay
- Expiry date (if applicable)
They cannot access:
- Your full immigration history
- Sensitive personal data
Common Problems & Solutions
1. Share Code Not Working
- Make sure it hasn’t expired (valid for 90 days)
- Generate a new one if needed
2. Wrong Information Showing
- Double-check your login details
- Contact UKVI support if the issue persists
3. Landlord Doesn’t Accept Share Code
- Inform them that digital checks are official and valid
- They can verify via the UK government website
Tips for Tenants
- Generate your share code before applying for properties
- Keep a screenshot or note of the code
- Renew it if it expires during your rental search
- Always use the official government service
Tips for Landlords (Bonus Section)
If you run a property listing or rental platform like rentads.co.uk, encourage landlords to:
- Accept digital share codes
- Avoid discrimination
- Follow legal compliance for tenant checks
FAQs
How long does a Right to Rent share code last?
It is valid for 90 days.
Can I reuse the same share code?
Yes, multiple landlords can use it during its validity period.
Is the share code mandatory?
Yes, if you don’t have physical documents and hold digital immigration status.
Is it safe to share?
Yes, it is secure and only gives limited access to your information.
Final Thoughts
The Right to Rent share code makes renting in the UK faster, safer, and more convenient. Whether you are a tenant or landlord, understanding how it works can save time and avoid legal issues.
If you’re listing or searching for rental properties, platforms like rentads.co.uk can help connect tenants and landlords quickly and efficiently.
