Managing a property portfolio comes with its fair share of regulatory updates, but staying compliant doesn't have to be overwhelming. This month(September 2026), the government announced the official rollout plans for its new landlord and property register.

At Ultralets, our priority is keeping your investments safe, profitable, and stress free. Here is your friendly, comprehensive guide to what the new system means for you and how the rollout works.

What is the PRS Database/Rental Property Register?

The Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database is a new digital register introduced under Part 2 of the Renters’ Rights Act. It creates a centralised national system where residential landlords and rental properties in England must be registered before being let out or advertised. It will also be known as the “Register your rental property” service. 

Regional roll out of the “register your rental property” service (PRS Database)

To keep the system running smoothly, the government is launching the service across England's nine official regions in stages starting late 2026. Landlords will have a 3 month grace window from their region's start date to complete registrations for active tenancies.

Who will need to register rental properties on the PRS Database?

Registration is compulsory for residential landlords letting homes under Assured Tenancies (including Assured Periodic Tenancies) and Rent Act 1977 tenancies.

Landlords with resident lodgers or non-Housing Act tenancies (such as High Rent properties over £100k/year or company lets) do not currently need to register.

How can landlords register for the PRS Database?

Landlords will access the service online through GOV.UK once their regional window opens. For those who prefer not to use digital systems, a paper based registration form will also be made available.

How to obtain a Property Registration Number

After setting up your landlord profile, you register each individual property in your portfolio, pay the registration fee, and submit the required safety details. You'll then receive a unique Property Registration Number for each home. The pricing is currently set to be £65 per property, per year. 

What information will be needed to register a rental property for the Database?

To complete a property entry, you will need:

• Property address and ownership details.
• In-date compliance records (Gas Safety certificate, EICR, EPC).
• Local authority selective or HMO licensing information (where applicable).

The obligations of letting agents and advertisers about the PRS Database

Once the database is active in a region, letting agents and property portals (such as Rightmove and Zoopla) are legally prohibited from marketing or advertising any rental property without displaying both a valid Landlord Registration Number and Property Registration Number.

How will letting agents be able to register rental properties on the Database?

Under government guidelines, landlords must log in and create their initial landlord account themselves. However, once your account is open, the system allows you to delegate administrative access to Ultralets. We can upload property data, attach compliance certificates, and manage ongoing record updates on your behalf.

Civil penalties for breaches of Section 82 Renters’ Rights Act

Local councils can issue civil penalties of up to £7,000 for single breaches, such as minor administrative delays or failing to keep safety entries updated.

Database offences under Section 92 RRA

For severe or ongoing non-compliance, such as knowingly providing false or misleading information, or continuing to let a property without valid registrations penalties can rise up to £40,000, alongside potential criminal prosecution.

Check out our quick fire Q&A’s on the PRS Database here.

Want to make sure your portfolio is fully prepared ahead of the regional deadlines? Get in touch with the team today on 01482 562 562 or email our Client Manager, Jake on jake.astill@ultralets.co.uk.