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As part of the changes brought in by the Renters' Rights Act 2025, the Private Rented Sector (PRS) database is set to be introduced, starting in late 2026.
All landlords of assured and regulated tenancies will be required to register themselves and their properties on the PRS database. Landlords will be required to pay an annual fee, the amount of which will be confirmed closer to launch.
The government says that the PRS database will provide a 'one-stop shop' for landlords, allowing them to access relevant guidance through a single 'front door'. This will provide the basis for an effective service, helping landlords understand their obligations and demonstrate compliance. The database will also be used for communicating changes to requirements, ensuring that landlords have access to simple up-to-date information about their responsibilities.
Local councils will be able to take enforcement action against landlords that do not register on the PRS database. If a landlord lets or advertises a property without it first being registered, the council can issue a civil penalty of up to £7,000. A landlord that repeatedly breaches the requirement, or commits a serious offence such as providing fraudulent information to the database, can be issued with a civil penalty of up to £40,000 or could face criminal prosecution.
Landlords in breach of the duty to register will not be able to obtain a possession order, except if the ground under which possession is sought is Ground 7A or Ground 14 (tenant anti-social behaviour).
The government has published a guide to the Act on its website.