The Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database is one of the most significant new requirements introduced by the Renters' Rights Act. All landlords in England must register their properties before letting them. This guide explains what the database is, how registration works, and what letting agents need to do.
What is the PRS Database?
The PRS Database is a national register of landlords and rental properties in England, introduced under the Renters' Rights Act. Its purpose is to give local authorities better visibility of the private rented sector, enable enforcement action against rogue landlords, and provide tenants with a way to verify that their landlord is registered. The database is administered by a government-appointed operator and is expected to be fully operational from 31 May 2026.
Who must register?
All landlords who let residential property in England must register on the PRS Database. This includes individual landlords, companies, and trusts. There is no minimum portfolio size — even landlords with a single property must register. Letting agents acting on behalf of landlords are not required to register themselves, but they are expected to assist their landlords with the registration process and to confirm registration status as part of their tenancy setup workflow.
What information is required?
Registration requires landlords to provide: their full name and contact details; the address of each rental property; details of any managing agent; and confirmation that the property meets the required safety standards (gas safety, electrical safety, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms). Landlords will receive a registration number for each property, which must be included in any tenancy agreement and in any advertising of the property.
What are the penalties for non-registration?
Letting a property without being registered on the PRS Database is a criminal offence under the Act. Landlords who fail to register face fines and, in serious cases, a Rent Repayment Order — meaning they may be required to repay up to 12 months of rent to the tenant. Letting agents who knowingly let a property on behalf of an unregistered landlord may also face penalties.
What should letting agents do now?
Agents should audit their landlord portfolios and identify any landlords who are not yet registered. We recommend writing to all landlords on your books now — before the 31 May 2026 deadline — to explain the registration requirement and provide guidance on how to complete it. Get Rent Ready includes a PRS Database Advisory Letter in our monthly compliance pack, which explains the requirement to landlords in plain English and prompts them to register.
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