The PRS Database: Everything You Need to Know
The mandatory landlord register that gives tenants real transparency for the first time. Here is what it means for you.
What is the PRS Database?
The Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database is a centralised, digital register of every private landlord in England. It was created by the Renters' Rights Act 2025 (c.26), which received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025.
The database replaces the existing Database of Rogue Landlords, which only tracked landlords with convictions or multiple civil penalties. The PRS Database goes much further: every private landlord must register, regardless of their history. This is a fundamental shift in how the private rented sector is regulated.
The database will be publicly accessible, meaning tenants and prospective tenants can search it before signing a tenancy agreement. For the first time, renters will have a reliable way to verify that their landlord is operating legally.
Why It Matters for Tenants
Transparency
Check landlord credentials before you sign. No more guessing whether your landlord is operating legally.
Accountability
Landlords who do not register face fines of up to £40,000 and cannot legally let or evict. The register holds them accountable.
Protection
Enforcement history is visible. Councils can identify non-compliant landlords faster, protecting tenants from repeat offenders.
What Data the PRS Database Contains
Landlords must submit detailed information about themselves and each property they let. The database will hold the following fields:
| Category | Data Fields |
|---|---|
| Landlord Identity | Full name, contact address, email, phone number |
| Agent Details | Managing agent name, registration number, contact details |
| Property Information | Full address, property type, number of bedrooms, council tax band, HMO status |
| Safety Certificates | Gas safety (CP12), EPC rating and expiry, EICR report and expiry |
| Safety Equipment | Smoke alarm confirmation, CO alarm confirmation |
| Tenancy Details | Rent amount, tenancy start date, deposit scheme, How to Rent guide provided |
| Enforcement History | Civil penalties, criminal convictions, banning orders, rent repayment orders |
| Ombudsman Membership | PRS Ombudsman registration status (from 2028) |
When Does the PRS Database Launch?
The government has indicated a regional rollout beginning in late 2026. This means certain areas of England will go live first as a pilot, with the rest of the country following in stages.
Full national coverage is expected by 2027-2028. The exact timeline depends on the government's implementation schedule, which is still being finalised.
During the rollout period, landlords in active regions will be required to register within a set timeframe. Failure to register once their area goes live will constitute an offence.
Want to know the moment it launches in your area?
Register your interest below and we will email you as soon as the PRS Database goes live.
How to Use the PRS Database (When Live)
Enter a postcode or landlord name
Search the PRS Database by the property postcode or by the landlord's registered name.
View registration status
Confirm that the landlord is registered and authorised to let property at the address you searched.
Check compliance history
Review gas safety, EPC, and EICR certification status. See whether all safety requirements are met.
Review enforcement actions
Check whether the landlord has any civil penalties, criminal convictions, or banning orders on record.
Penalties for Landlords Who Do Not Register
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces serious consequences for landlords who fail to register on the PRS Database:
| Offence | Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Failure to register (first offence) | Up to £7,000 | Cannot serve valid possession notices |
| Repeat failure to register | Up to £40,000 | May face criminal prosecution |
| Letting without registration | Up to £7,000 | Cannot market or advertise the property |
| Providing false information | Up to £40,000 | Criminal prosecution possible |
Additionally, tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for a rent repayment order of up to 24 months' rent if their landlord has committed a relevant offence, including failure to register.
How Councils Use the PRS Database
Local authorities gain powerful new enforcement tools through the PRS Database:
- Identify unregistered landlords and properties in their area
- Cross-reference registration data with licensing and enforcement records
- Detect potential HMOs that have not applied for mandatory licences
- Monitor compliance with gas safety, EPC, and electrical safety requirements
- Issue civil penalties directly, without needing to go through the courts
- Track repeat offenders and build cases for prosecution or banning orders
If you work in council housing enforcement, see our council tools and pricing for bulk property data access.
Get Notified When Landlord Checks Go Live
The PRS Database launches late 2026. Be the first to check if your landlord is registered and compliant.
No spam. We will only email you when the PRS Database launches.
Related Tools
While the PRS Database is being built, use these free tools to check your rental property:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PRS Database the same as the Rogue Landlord Database?
No. The Database of Rogue Landlords only listed landlords with convictions or multiple civil penalties. The PRS Database replaces it entirely with a comprehensive register that ALL private landlords in England must join, regardless of their history.
Will the PRS Database be free for tenants to use?
Yes. The government has confirmed that the publicly accessible elements of the PRS Database will be free for tenants and prospective tenants to search. You will be able to check landlord registration status and compliance information at no cost.
Do all landlords need to register, including those with one property?
Yes. Every private landlord in England who lets residential property must register on the PRS Database, whether they own one property or hundreds. There are no exemptions based on portfolio size.
What if my landlord uses a letting agent?
The landlord remains responsible for registering on the PRS Database even if they use a letting agent or property management company. However, the agent can submit the registration on the landlord's behalf. The database will show both the landlord and any agent associated with the property.
Can I check the PRS Database before signing a tenancy?
Yes, that is one of the primary purposes of the database. Once live, prospective tenants will be able to search by postcode or landlord name to verify registration status before committing to a tenancy agreement.
Important Disclaimer
This page provides general information about the PRS Database under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 (c.26). It is not legal advice. The PRS Database applies to England only. Implementation details, launch dates, and database features may change. If you need specific legal advice, contact Shelter (0808 800 4444) or Citizens Advice.