The Renters’ Rights Act Miniseries: Part 4 – Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database – What Landlords Need To Know
Since its introduction in May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (RRA) has made major changes to the private rented sector. This article forms part 4 of our Renters’ Rights Act Miniseries and highlights a key change that will form part of the second phase of the Act’s implementation. In this instalment of the series, we focus specifically on the new Private Rented Sector Database, including the registration requirements, deadlines and information landlords will need to provide.
What is the Private Rented Sector Database?
The Private Rented Sector Database is part of the second phase of Renters’ Rights Act implementation. A landlord of an assured or regulated tenancy must register their ID and upload details and documents for each of their properties through the HM Government service. However, landlords of supported exempt accommodation, as defined by the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023, will not be required to register on the service.
When does the Private Rented Sector Database start?
The Private Rented Sector Database is being introduced through a regional rollout, rather than starting across England on a single date.
Private Rented Sector Database: Registration deadlines
| Region | Date regulations commence | Deadline to register |
| West Midlands | 15 December 2026 | 14 March 2027 |
| East of England | 15 January 2027 | 14 April 2027 |
| East Midlands | 15 February 2027 | 14 May 2027 |
| South East | 15 March 2027 | 14 June 2027 |
| Yorkshire and Humber | 15 April 2027 | 14 July 2027 |
| North West | 15 May 2027 | 14 August 2027 |
| North East | 15 June 2027 | 14 September 2027 |
| London | 15 July 2027 | 14 October 2027 |
| South West | 15 August 2027 | 14 November 2027 |
What does registration cost?
All landlords will be required to pay an annual £65 fee to register for each individual property.
What happens if a landlord fails to register a rental property?
After the registration deadline, councils in that area can use the database to enforce the law. Landlords who fail to register could face fines of up to £7,000, increasing to £40,000 for repeated failures.
A landlord who fails to register cannot obtain a possession order – on any ground except anti-social behaviour. By registering their property, landlords show prospective tenants and Council housing officers they are complying with the law.
Is there an offline registration option?
HM Government says “Offline registration routes will be available for landlords who need them.”
Which properties need to be registered on the Private Rented Sector database?
Landlords are only required to register properties if they are currently under let or become let during the rollout period. However, under future legislation, Landlords will also be required to register any unoccupied properties before they market them for let. Landlords and agents will need to ensure the unique landlord and property identifiers are included on adverts at this point. The government will provide further guidance ahead of this requirement.
Landlords need a GOV.UK One Login to use the service.
What documents does the landlord need to upload?
The Private Rented Sector Database must record details of properties, the address and the number of residents and bedrooms, as well as the amount of rent they receive for a property. Landlords will need to establish they meet health and safety standards by uploading gas, electric, and energy performance certificates. A full list of the required information is available on the HM Government website listed at the end of this article. An example of the information is set out below:
- Landlord identity, contact and ownership details
- Property details, tenancy and rent information
- HMO, additional or selective licence details, where applicable
- A copy of the gas safety record, where the property has a gas supply
- A copy of the EICR, and/or an appropriate Electrical Installation Certificate
- A copy of the most recent EPC or reasons why no EPC is required. Details of any registered MEES exemption where the rating is below the minimum standard
If a landlord uses a letting agent, then the landlord still needs to start the registration process. There will be an option for the agent or property manager to upload certain information on their behalf. HM Gov says they will publish guidance for letting agents and property managers on how this will work ahead of service rollout. To be notified when new guidance is published, landlords can sign up to GOV.UK Alerts
Where can landlords find further guidance on the Private Rented Sector Database?
Landlords can find further information about the Private Rented Sector Database and the registration process through the following HM Government resources:
If you are a landlord and require further assistance with the Private Rented Sector Database, registration requirements, or your wider obligations under the Renters’ Rights Act, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced landlord and tenant team.
Our specialist solicitors in Plymouth can provide landlord and tenant advice on the changes being introduced under the Renters’ Rights Act and help landlords understand their obligations. To get in touch, please call 01752 203500 or email enquiries@GAsolicitors.com.
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