The launch of England’s new landlord database has been welcomed by Generation Rent, but the campaign group says the scheme still leaves several important gaps that need to be addressed.
The organisation has outlined eight areas where it believes the database could be improved.
Eviction Notices Not Included
Generation Rent says landlords are not required to record eviction notices against their property on the database.
The group argues that this could make it more difficult for tenants and councils to establish whether a landlord has breached the rules and potentially support claims for rent to be repaid.
Enforcement Information Missing
The campaign group also wants the register to show whether enforcement action or prosecutions have been taken against a landlord.
Although landlords subject to banning orders will be unable to register, Generation Rent says other enforcement records should also be made available.
Link to Short-Let Database
Another recommendation is for the landlord database to be connected with the planned register for short-term holiday lets.
Generation Rent believes bringing the two systems together would provide a more complete picture of properties being used within the private rental and short-let markets.
Accessibility Details
The group has also called for information about accessibility to be included.
Details such as whether a property has suitable facilities for disabled or older renters could help people identify homes that better meet their needs before making enquiries.
Deposit Protection Information
Generation Rent wants the database to show whether a tenant’s deposit is protected under an approved scheme.
The group believes this would give renters another way to check whether their landlord is meeting their legal responsibilities.
Contact Details for Concerns
The campaigners have also suggested that the register should provide contact information for tenants or neighbours who have concerns about a property.
However, it has not made clear exactly whose contact details should be included or how this information would be managed.
Clearer Penalties for Unregistered Landlords
Another demand is for the database to explain clearly what penalties landlords face if they fail to register.
Generation Rent points out that tenants could potentially have grounds to reclaim rent where landlords have failed to meet registration requirements, making clear guidance particularly important.
Information About Renters’ Rights
Finally, the group wants the database to provide straightforward information about renters’ rights and where tenants can seek help.
Generation Rent says the database’s planned rollout represents progress, but believes the system needs to go further before renters can easily check whether their landlord is legitimate and whether their home meets the required standards.
The landlord database is due to be introduced across England on a regional basis, with the rollout expected to run from late 2026 through to autumn 2027.
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