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Choosing the Right Tenant Under the Renters’ Rights Act

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Selecting the right tenant has always been one of the most important decisions a landlord makes. While the Renters’ Rights Act has introduced changes to the way properties are let, careful tenant selection remains just as important as ever.

The legislation places greater emphasis on fair and consistent decision-making, helping to create a transparent letting process that protects both landlords and tenants while supporting successful, long-term tenancies.

What has changed?

The Renters’ Rights Act reinforces the importance of treating every applicant fairly throughout the letting process.

Landlords should assess prospective tenants using clear, consistent criteria rather than making decisions based on assumptions or blanket policies. The focus should always be on whether an applicant is suitable for the tenancy, supported by appropriate referencing and affordability checks.

Legal requirements, including Right to Rent checks, continue to apply and should be carried out correctly for every applicant.

How to choose a tenant fairly

A structured approach benefits everyone involved.

Applying the same criteria to every applicant helps ensure decisions are consistent and transparent. Thorough referencing, including affordability checks, employment or income verification, previous landlord references where available, and credit checks, provides valuable information to help landlords make informed decisions.

It’s also important to have open conversations from the outset about expectations, responsibilities and the terms of the tenancy. Clear communication at the beginning can help establish a positive landlord and tenant relationship.

Keeping accurate records of the application process and the reasons behind decisions also helps demonstrate that applicants have been assessed fairly and consistently.

Why good tenant selection matters

Careful tenant selection isn’t about finding the “perfect” tenant. It’s about ensuring the tenancy is the right fit for both landlord and tenant.

Thorough referencing and clear communication at the outset can help lay the foundations for a successful tenancy, giving both landlords and tenants greater confidence as the tenancy begins.

Need help finding the right tenant?

Our experienced lettings team can guide you through every stage of the letting process, from marketing your property and referencing applicants to ensuring your tenancy complies with the latest legislation.

Whether you’re letting a property for the first time or adding to an established portfolio, we’re here to help you find the right tenant with confidence.

Get in touch with your local John German lettings team to find out how we can support you.

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Date Posted

August 7, 2026

Article Category

Author

Fiona Clougher

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