Landlord taking away passport for verification AIBU

[NameChangeTimeNow]

I’m moving into a new flat, and the landlord has asked to see my original passport and a photocopy of the first page.

They’ve said that they will return the passport after verifying the copy.

I would prefer for the landlord to verify my passport in my presence as I don’t feel comfortable with them taking my passport away. AIBU?

Could you help me think of a way to word this politely to them please, just to clarify how I feel about it?

Has this happened to anyone else before?

Thanks.

I wouldn't allow it. I work in HR and we don't take passports away. There's no chance I'd let a landlord do it. How dies he/she intend to verify it anyway? With the home office or passport control?

No chance

The right to rent guide gives instructions on 'verifying ' documents (does the photo look like the tenant/date of birth seem plausible etc). And that copies should be made. It does say photos are acceptable though.