Landlord asking for proof of ID/ immigration status

[Lund]

We have been in our rental property for 3 years and have recently signed another 12 month contract. The landlord has a bee in his bonnet about the new rules to do with landlords checking the status of new tenants, and has asked for us to send him copies of our passports.

As far as I can see, the new legislation applies only to new tenancy agreements. Does he have any right to request this of us? We (DH and I) were both born in the UK and have lived here all our lives, from British backgrounds, working here etc etc. We have nothing to hide. We just don't appreciate this infringement of our privacy.

We have said no, politely, and this is his latest email

'I contacted my auditor and he confirms it is mandatory to have ID copies of tenants. So kindly send me copies of your driving license or Passport. I can’t take any risk on this matter as the law has become very strict on this.

Are you having british PP or other nationality? Kindly confirm urgently.'

Can anyone advise if we are within our rights to refuse this request? Thanks

Thank you to everyone for their input on this. Some interesting points raised about data protection. As it turns out, our landlord was confused about the new legislation, and was mis-advised by others, and we don't need to show him any ID! The previous tenants here were from overseas and I think he was also getting us mixed up. We would have sent him copies if he had continued to demand it, as we wouldn't do anything to jeopardise our tenancy but we did feel a bit hassled by him, especially as it was such a sudden and urgent request. I am aware we would have to show ID if/ when we move to another rental property, but we are used to jumping through hoops for that!

Oh good, so glad it worked out. Nice to have a happy ending so simply.