As part of the Renters’ Rights Act, the Government is introducing a new Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database to improve standards, transparency, and compliance across the rental market in England.
The new “Register Your Rental Property” service will become a legal requirement for most landlords, creating a central register of landlords and privately rented properties.
While the service is not yet live, the Government has now confirmed that registration will begin rolling out regionally from December 2026, giving landlords time to prepare.
For the latest guidance, visit the GOV.UK – Get Ready to Register Your Rental Property
What is the PRS Database?
The PRS Database is a new national register designed to provide a clearer picture of the private rented sector.
Landlords will be fully responsible for registering:
- Themselves as landlords
- Each individual rental property they let
Agents can upload documents to the register on behalf of their landlord clients if agreed.
The database aims to improve compliance, support local authorities in enforcing standards, and provide greater transparency for tenants.
When Will Registration Be Required?
The registration scheme will be introduced in phases, with registration opening from December 2026.
The Government has confirmed a regional rollout, beginning with the West Midlands, with other regions following according to a published timetable.
Once registration opens in a property’s region, landlords will have three months to register that property.
Importantly, landlords with properties across multiple regions should pay close attention to the rollout schedule, as registration deadlines may vary depending on where each property is located.
We recommend checking the GOV.UK guidance regularly to ensure you know when your properties become eligible for registration and when the relevant deadline applies.
How Much Will Registration Cost?
The Government has proposed a registration fee of £65 per property.
For landlords with larger portfolios, these costs can add up quickly, so it is worth factoring them into future budgeting and compliance planning.
It’s also important to note that the landlord is responsible for completing the registration process, rather than their managing agent. Although agents can assist with compliance preparation, the registration itself must be completed by the landlord.
Why Is the Database Being Introduced?
The Government intends for the database to:
- Improve standards across the private rented sector
- Help landlords understand and meet their legal obligations
- Support local authorities in identifying and tackling non-compliance
- Increase transparency for tenants
- Create a single source of information relating to rental property compliance
The database forms part of the wider package of reforms being introduced through the Renters’ Rights Act.
What Information Will Landlords Need?
Although full details are still being finalised, landlords are expected to provide information relating to:
- Their identity and contact details
- Property addresses
- Compliance documentation and safety certifications
- Information demonstrating that properties meet legal requirements
The Government is encouraging landlords to begin gathering this information now to make registration easier when the service launches.
How Can Landlords Prepare Now?
We recommend landlords take the following steps:
1. Review Your Property Records
Ensure you have up-to-date records for all rental properties, including:
- Gas Safety Certificates
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs)
- Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
- Property ownership information
- Tenancy details where applicable
2. Check Compliance Documentation
Confirm that all required safety and compliance certificates are valid and accessible.
3. Keep Contact Information Updated
Ensure your contact details are current and consistent across property records and regulatory registrations.
4. Understand Your Registration Deadlines
If you own properties in different regions, review the Government’s rollout timetable carefully so you know when registration opens and when the three-month compliance window applies to each property.
4. Budget for Registration Fees
With a proposed fee of £65 per property, landlords should consider the financial impact across their portfolio and plan accordingly.
How Mava Living Can Help
The regulatory landscape for landlords continues to evolve. Keeping accurate records and maintaining compliance is becoming increasingly important.
At Mava Living, we help landlords stay on top of changing legislation and property compliance requirements, giving you confidence that your investment remains protected and professionally managed.
If you’d like advice on preparing your portfolio for upcoming legislative changes, get in touch with our team.
