What is the PRS Database? 

The PRS Database will be a national register of landlords and privately rented properties in England. Designed to improve standards and provide greater transparency, the database will require landlords to register both themselves and the properties they let. 

The initiative forms part of the government's wider ambition to professionalise the private rented sector, ensuring that landlords, tenants and local authorities have access to key information.

Why is the database being introduced? 

Historically, there has been no single national source of information on landlords and rental properties. This has made it challenging for local authorities to identify non-compliance and for tenants to verify details about a property before entering into a tenancy. 

What information will need to be uploaded? 

While details are yet to be finalised, landlords are expected to provide information relating to both themselves and their properties. This is likely to include: 

• Landlord contact details
• Property addresses
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) information
• Gas safety certification
• Electrical safety documentation
• Evidence of compliance with relevant legal obligations 

The exact scope of information available to tenants, local authorities and regulators may differ depending on access permissions and privacy considerations. 

The final information requirements are expected to be confirmed through secondary legislation and/or further government guidance.

What does this mean for landlords? 

The first phase of reforms under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 took effect from 1 May 2026; the PRS Database is part of the second phase and is expected to be introduced from late 2026.  

For landlords, registration will become a legal requirement for properties falling within the scope of the new regime. Failure to register or maintain accurate information may result in enforcement action and financial penalties. 

While the additional administrative requirements will require preparation, many professional landlords already maintain much of the information expected to be submitted. As a result, the database may be viewed as a formalisation of existing compliance obligations rather than a wholly new burden. 

Further information

Contact Sapna Fraser or Amelia Greene