How a new landlord database will help you check who you rent from
Key points
- A new national database is rolling out from late 2026 — once it is live in your area, you can search it free to check whether your landlord is properly registered.
- The database will show safety certificates for any registered property, including the gas safety record, electrical inspection report, and energy performance rating.
- All private landlords in England must register themselves and their properties — if they do not, you can get advice from Citizens Advice on what to do next.
A new national database is coming that will let you look up your landlord before you rent. From late 2026, every private landlord in England must sign up to this register. Once it goes live in your area, you will be able to search it to check who you are renting from.
What the database will show you
The Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database is being introduced as part of the Renters' Rights Act. It will list every private landlord and rental property in England.
For each registered property, you will be able to see:
- the landlord's name and contact details
- the full address, type of home, and number of bedrooms
- whether the property is currently let
- the gas safety record
- the electrical installation condition report
- the energy performance certificate (EPC) rating
You can search the database before you agree to rent a property, at any point during your tenancy, or whenever you need to check your landlord's details.
Why this helps you
Finding out about a landlord before you sign a contract has always been difficult. This database changes that.
If the safety certificates for a property are missing or out of date, you will be able to see this before you hand over any money. You can also check that the landlord's name and contact details match what they have told you. That gives you much more confidence before you commit to a home.
Search for your next property on DSSmove →When does it start?
The rollout begins from late 2026. It will not happen everywhere at once — some parts of England will go live first, with other areas following over time. To find out when your area will be covered, check the GOV.UK Renters' Rights Act guidance pages or ask Citizens Advice.
What you can do now
You do not need to do anything before the database launches in your area. Once it is live, searching it will be free. If you are looking for a new rental home at that point, it is worth doing a quick check before you agree to anything:
- Search the database for the landlord's name or the property address.
- Check that the landlord's details match what they have told you.
- Look at the safety certificates listed for the property.
If you are already renting and have concerns — about your landlord's registration status or the safety certificates for your home — Citizens Advice or Shelter can explain your options and what to do next.
Frequently asked questions
What if the database has not launched in my area yet?
The rollout is staged by area from late 2026 — if it is not live near you yet, keep checking the GOV.UK Renters' Rights Act pages or ask Citizens Advice when your area will be covered.
Does this database apply in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
No — the Private Rented Sector Database covers England only. If you rent outside England, contact Citizens Advice in your area for advice on local landlord registration rules.
Official source: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/renters-rights-act-overview-for-tenants