The Renters’ Rights Act is bringing significant changes to the private rental sector, and the next phase of implementation will introduce a new national registration system for landlords and rental properties.
Expected to begin rolling out from late 2026, the government’s new “Register your rental property” service will become a key part of renting out property in England. For landlords across the Cotswolds, understanding these changes now will help ensure you’re prepared when the new requirements come into force.
As a trusted Cotswold estate and letting agency, we’re committed to keeping our landlords informed and compliant as the legislation evolves.
What is changing?
Under the new legislation, landlords will need to register both themselves and each privately rented property they own.
Once registered, they will receive:
- A Landlord Registration Number
- A Property Registration Number for every rental property
When the scheme is fully operational, properties cannot be legally marketed or advertised without both registration numbers. This means landlords and letting agents will need to ensure registration is complete before bringing a property to market.
Keeping your registration up to date
Registration won’t simply be a one-off task. Landlords will be responsible for ensuring that the information held on the register remains accurate throughout the life of the tenancy.
This is expected to include updates relating to:
- Property ownership
- Contact details
- Safety and compliance documentation
- Licensing information where applicable
The aim is to improve transparency across the private rented sector while making it easier for tenants and local authorities to access key information.
Penalties for failing to comply
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces substantial financial penalties for landlords who fail to meet their obligations.
Local authorities will have the power to issue:
- Civil penalties of up to £7,000 for a single breach, such as failing to register or maintain accurate information.
- Civil penalties of up to £40,000 where false or misleading information is provided, or where a landlord continues to let a property without valid registrations.
With these penalties in place, ensuring your property records are accurate will be more important than ever.
What will landlords need to provide?
Although the service is still being finalised, landlords are likely to be asked to submit information including:
- Proof of identity
- Contact details
- Property ownership information
- Property addresses
- Safety certificates and compliance documentation
- Licensing details where relevant
The exact requirements will be confirmed closer to the full rollout, but organising this information now will make registration much easier.
How Cotswold landlords can prepare
Whether you own a traditional Cotswold cottage, a village family home or a portfolio of rental properties across the region, now is the ideal time to review your compliance documentation and property records.
We recommend:
- Checking that all statutory safety certificates are current.
- Ensuring licensing requirements have been met.
- Reviewing ownership and contact information.
- Keeping important compliance documents organised and readily available.
- Speaking with your letting agent about how the registration process will be managed.
Supporting landlords across the Cotswolds
At Harrison Hardie, we’ve been helping landlords across the Cotswolds navigate changes in property legislation for many years. We understand the unique nature of the local rental market, from picturesque village cottages to town centre apartments and country homes.
As these reforms continue to be introduced, our experienced lettings team will be on hand to provide practical advice, keep you updated on legislative changes and help ensure your property remains compliant.
If you have any questions about the Renters’ Rights Act or would like to discuss the management of your rental property, we’d be delighted to help. Contact our team today to find out how we can support you through the changes with confidence.