New Landlord Database to be Introduced in December
Phase two of the Renters’ Rights Act is now coming into play. This includes a requirement of Landlords to register on a new database.
This will involve the payment of a fee of £65 per property per year. Registration across the country will commence from 15th December but different regions have different deadlines. London as an example has a deadline of 14th October 2027, whilst the South East is 14th June 2027.
All private Landlords who have properties occupied under assured or regulated tenancies must sign up for the scheme.
Vacant Properties
Properties that are currently vacant and being marketed do not have to sign up at this stage but going forward all properties will require a registration number in order to market a property.
Potential Fines
There are potential fines for those who do not comply with this new legislation. Penalties are up to £7,000 per property which could rise to £40,000 for multiple offences.
Registration via the Government Website
Details will need to be added to the Government website. Precisely what details will be required is a little unclear at this stage but it is assumed that it will include basic property details, how it is occupied and compliance related certificates such as gas safety.
It is worth noting that this is not data that can be supplied by agents and it needs to come from the landlord themselves.
The Valuation Office Role in Disputes
It has also been announced that the Valuation Office (VOA) will play a role in challenges to Section 13 rent increases.
This move is hoped to speed up the process of any disputes between the Landlord and the tenants.
Student Accommodation Exemptions
Some student accommodation will sit outside of these regulations, in particular education approved establishment provided accommodation and private student specific built accommodation. Ordinary student houses will however, be covered by the Act.
There is no doubt that the landscape for Landlords has changed and there is further change coming. To ensure compliance please feel free to contact one of our specialists in Landlord Tenant law.