England to launch mandatory landlord registration scheme

The UK government is launching a mandatory landlord registration service as part of the Renters’ Rights Act reforms. The scheme is scheduled to begin on 15 December, starting in the West Midlands before rolling out nationwide over the next 12 months.

Landlords will be required to pay an annual fee of £65 per property to remain compliant. Officials stated these funds will cover administrative costs and enforcement actions against non-compliant owners. Failure to register within the designated three-month window for each area could result in fines of up to £7,000. All landlords actively letting property must be registered by 14 November 2027.

Initially, the requirement applies to properties currently let or those that become occupied during the rollout. Future legislation will mandate that unoccupied properties be registered before they are marketed. The registration process will require details such as rent charged, number of occupants, and valid gas, electrical, and energy performance certificates. Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook noted the database aims to empower tenants and support responsible landlords by helping councils enforce new housing standards.