The New Landlord Database: What Landlords Need to Know
The Renters’ Rights Act has already brought significant changes to the private rental sector, with the first phase coming into force on 1 May 2026.
The next major change is the introduction of the new Private Rented Sector Database.
Landlords will be required to register themselves and their rental properties as the new system is introduced across England. The Government has confirmed that registration will begin rolling out region by region from 15 December 2026. For landlords, it means another important compliance requirement to understand and prepare for. The good news is that you do not have to navigate it alone.
At Richard Kendall Lettings, our team will continue to keep landlords informed, help you understand what the changes mean and support you with the requirements affecting your rental property.
What is the new landlord database?
The Private Rented Sector Database will create a national record of landlords and privately rented properties in England. Registration will be mandatory for private landlords. The Government says landlords will also be required to pay an annual registration fee, although the amount has not yet been confirmed.
The database is intended to:
- Give tenants more information about their landlord and rental property
- Help landlords understand and demonstrate compliance
- Give local councils better information about rented properties in their area
- Bring important information and guidance together in one place
What information will landlords need?
Final requirements will be confirmed as the system is introduced. However, the Government expects landlords to provide information including:
- Landlord contact details
- Details of each rental property
- Property type and number of bedrooms
- Occupancy information
- Gas safety information
- Electrical safety information
- Energy Performance Certificate details
The Government has confirmed that safety and property information will form part of the registration requirements. Why should landlords prepare now? Once registration applies in your area, it will become a legal requirement.
Landlords will be given a three-month period to register when their region is brought into the scheme, with all landlords actively letting property expected to be registered by 14 November 2027. Further changes will also mean that landlords will eventually need to register properties before they are advertised for rent, with registration numbers appearing on property adverts.
Preparing your records now will make the process much easier. It is worth checking that you have up-to-date copies of:
- Gas Safety Certificates
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports
- Energy Performance Certificates
- Any HMO or selective licensing information that applies to your property
- Your property and landlord details
Not sure what you need to do? That is where Richard Kendall Lettings can help.
Rental legislation continues to change and we understand that keeping on top of every new requirement can feel like another job in itself. Whether you already use Richard Kendall to manage your property or you manage your rental yourself, our lettings team is here to offer help and advice.
We can help you understand:
- What the Renters’ Rights Act means for you
- What documentation you should have in place
- How upcoming changes could affect your property
- What you need to do to remain compliant
- How our managed lettings service can take more of the day-to-day responsibility away from you
If you are unsure about the new landlord database, the Renters’ Rights Act or your responsibilities as a landlord, speak to your local Richard Kendall Lettings team.
We are here to make letting property simpler and help you stay prepared as the rules change.
