When someone makes an immigration application to come to the UK, they have to confirm they are moving into accommodation that is of a suitable standard that will not be made overcrowded by their arrival.

Sponsorship
A named individual normally has to sponsor the person moving into the area and this individual or sponsor is asked by the immigration authority for proof that the property being moved into is suitable.  The British High Commission usually ask that this work is undertaken by a suitably qualified Surveyor or Environmental Health Officer.  The survey is designed to ensure that the accommodation meets the following criteria:-

(the property);
• is acceptable for occupation under the Housing Act 2004
• is in a reasonable state of repair, and
• will not become overcrowded if they live there

Housing Enforcement provide this service.  It is not a statutory function, so a fee is payable for the inspection and a letter to be produced.  The fee is payable in advance. If you pay by cheque, we will wait for confirmation that the cheque has cleared before arranging an appointment to inspect.  The current fee for this service is £120.

After receiving payment, an Officer will contact you to arrange a time convenient to you for the inspection to take place. During the inspection, the Officer will need to look around the whole of your property.

The following information will be required to support the inspection:
• Name and Date of Birth of the person seeking entry to the UK.
• Name and Date of Birth of all other occupants in the property to be inspected.
• Copy of a Tenancy Agreement or Proof of Ownership of the property.
• Current Gas Safety Certificate .

Should you wish Housing Enforcement to carry out an immigration inspection, please contact us on 01824 706389.