Sean Hooker of the Property Redress Scheme – one of the two government-approved redress services – has welcomed the launch of the private rental database.
Landlords will be obliged to pay £65 for the privilege of compulsorily registering.
Within the new database, landlords will be expected to provide key details, such as personal information, property specifications, tenancy information, rental details and health and safety information, including gas and electrical safety certificates and EPC data, to demonstrate compliance with minimum energy efficiency standards moving forward.
Hooker says this will bring what he calls “much-needed transparency” and should help tenants make better-informed decisions, enable responsible landlords to demonstrate compliance and make it harder for rogue operators to hide.
He says: “The phased rollout is sensible, although it could create confusion for landlords with properties across several regions, as deadlines are determined by the location of each property rather than where the landlord lives.
“Many landlords will inevitably ask their agent to help. While landlords must start and complete the registration process themselves, agents and property managers will be able to provide certain information on their behalf.
“Before agreeing to do so, agents should check that their contracts allow for it, clearly define what support they will provide and reiterate that the landlord remains legally responsible for ensuring the information is complete and accurate.
“What may be a relatively straightforward process for one property could quickly become a significant administrative exercise across hundreds of clients. Agents must consider whether they have the necessary resources, systems and checking procedures, as well as what they will charge for the additional work.”
Hooker believes accuracy will be critical.
Where an agent or property manager is named on the register, their contact details must be correct and kept up to date so important communications do not fall through the gaps.
Registration will be introduced region by region, with the following deadlines:
Regional registration deadlines
- West Midlands – 14 March 2027
- East of England – 14 April 2027
- East Midlands – 14 May 2027
- South East – 14 June 2027
- Yorkshire and the Humber – 14 July 2027
- North West – 14 August 2027
- North East – 14 September 2027
- London – 14 October 2027
- South West – 14 November 2027
