The private rented sector database explained
A national database of private landlords and rented properties is central to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Landlords must register themselves and their properties, and marketing or letting an unregistered property is an offence.
4 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
A national database of private landlords and rented properties is central to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Landlords must register themselves and their properties, and marketing or letting an unregistered property is an offence.
What has to be registered
Landlord identity, the properties let, and compliance information such as safety certificates and any licences. The intention is that councils and tenants can see the same compliance picture.
Keeping entries current
Registration is not a one-off. Certificate renewals, changes of managing agent and new properties need updating, so build database maintenance into your annual compliance cycle.
Consequences of non-registration
Expect civil penalties, restrictions on obtaining possession while unregistered, and council enforcement. This mirrors how licensing already works.
Getting ready
Collect gas, electrical, EPC, licence and deposit records into one place per property now. Landlords with a tidy digital file will register in minutes; those with paperwork in a drawer will not.
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This guide is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.