Letting Agents’ Role in PRS Database Clarified 

The government’s housing minister has given verbal confirmation that letting agents can assist landlords with the new Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database. In effect, this means that landlords can hand some of the additional workload to their managing agent – and avoid a financial penalty by inadvertently crossing the new red tape.  

The PRS Database and Ombudsman were introduced when the Renters’ Rights Act became law on 27 October 2025. While some changes already came into effect in spring 2026, the PRS Database is part of the second phase, rolling out from late 2026. 

It’s expected that the database will include: 

• The landlord’s name and contact details 
• The property’s address, number of bedrooms, and number of residents 
• Energy Performance Certificate 
• Gas and electrical safety certificates 

The database will be mandatory for all private landlords, who will pay an annual fee – though the exact amount is to be confirmed. Registering on the database, and providing accurate information, is crucial as landlords could receive a £7,000 civil penalty of £40,000 fine for flouting the rules.  

However, many landlords are reliant on their agent’s expertise to ensure compliance with evolving rental laws and keep on top of everyday management. The wording of the new rental legislation had, until now, left landlords wondering how much of the PRS Database they must handle personally.  

As reported by Property118, a written parliamentary question from Labour MP Marsha De Cordova has provided insight. De Cordova asked directly about the matter of letting agents submitting data for landlords. 

Matthew Pennycook, Minister of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, responded: “Letting agents will be able to support landlords with the registration of their properties on the PRS Database, providing certain property information on their behalf.” 

While this leaves room for some input to be required from landlords themselves, Pennycook’s statement suggests that letting agents can help in navigating this new area. Contact Best Gapp to find out how we can help with this and other landlord services to keep your property portfolio compliant. 

Read more on Property118 and in the government’s Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Implementation Roadmap.