⚠️ Section 21 Has Been Abolished — Effective 1 May 2026
As a result of the Renters' Rights Act, Section 21 "no-fault" evictions were abolished on 1 May 2026. Section 21 no longer applies. Landlords must now rely on Section 8 grounds for possession. All existing and new tenancies are affected.
Right to Rent Checks
for Chester Landlords
PDA Law is based in Chester and advises landlords across Chester and Cheshire on Right to Rent obligations. Every landlord in England must check that all adult occupiers have the legal right to rent before granting a tenancy — failure to comply can result in civil penalties of up to £20,000 per occupier.
Right to Rent Obligations for Chester Landlords
The Right to Rent scheme applies to all private residential tenancies in England — including properties in Chester and across Cheshire. As a Chester landlord, you must carry out Right to Rent checks for all adult occupiers aged 18 and over before granting any new tenancy.
PDA Law is based in Chester at Crown Buildings, 121A Saughall Road. We advise Chester and Cheshire landlords on their Right to Rent obligations and can help you set up compliant processes to protect yourself from penalties.
What Chester Landlords Must Do
Check before the tenancy starts
Carry out checks no more than 28 days before the tenancy start date. Do not wait until after the tenancy has begun.
Check all adult occupiers
Check every adult aged 18+ who will be living at the property — not just the named tenant. This includes any adults who are not party to the tenancy agreement.
Accept the correct documents
Accept documents from List A (unlimited right to rent) or List B (time-limited). For tenants with BRPs or EU Settlement Scheme status, use the Home Office online checking service.
Make and keep copies
Copy all documents checked (both sides if applicable) and record the date of the check. Keep records for the duration of the tenancy plus 12 months.
Carry out follow-up checks
For List B (time-limited) documents, diarise a follow-up check before the permission expires.
Penalties for Chester Landlords
Per occupier without the right to rent where no check was carried out.
For landlords who have previously received a civil penalty notice.
For knowingly letting to a person without the right to rent.
Areas We Cover from Chester
Related Landlord Services for Chester
Chester Landlord Solicitors
Crown Buildings, 121A Saughall Road
Chester CH1 5ET
Get clear advice on your Right to Rent obligations from Chester-based landlord solicitors.
Make an Enquiry01244 757 352Key Penalties
- Up to £20,000 per occupier (first breach)
- Unlimited fines for repeat breaches
- Criminal prosecution in serious cases
More Chester Landlord Services
Speak to a Chester Landlord Solicitor
Get clear advice on your Right to Rent obligations from PDA Law's Chester-based landlord solicitors.