Here is a reminder for those agents who will be affected by the introduction of mandatory immigration status checks on prospective tenants.

This is being introduced in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Walsall and Dudley on December 1.

Either landlords can carry out the checks themselves – or hand the job over to agents. Agreement to take over the responsibility needs to be made by both sides in writing.

Checks can be made up to 28 days before the commencement of a tenancy.

Failure to carry out the Right to Rent checks could result in a civil penalty of up to £3,000.

Codes of practice and guidance are available here

An online checking service where requests can be made for official checks is here and is already live.

There is also a dedicated helpline: 0300 069 9799.