New landlord registration scheme for London tenants from July 2027

A new landlord registration scheme will be progressively introduced across England from December 15, 2026. The initiative, designed to protect private renters, will allow tenants to verify their landlord's credentials. London landlords will have a registration window from July 15, 2027, with a deadline of October 14, 2027, to comply.

The Government stated that the scheme will provide councils with access to data, enabling them to identify landlords who are not adhering to regulations and to intervene more swiftly. Initially, the requirements will apply to landlords with properties that are currently let or become tenanted during the rollout phase. Future legislation will require landlords to register vacant properties before advertising them for rent. Both letting agents and landlords will be obligated to display their registration numbers on property advertisements.

Rent increase adjudication changes

In parallel, HM Revenue and Customs' (HMRC) Valuation Office will assume responsibility for adjudicating challenges to rent increases in England. Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook said this transfer will ensure rent increase challenges are determined faster, reducing pressure on the tribunal system and providing confidence to tenants and landlords. Currently, renters contesting a rent increase must apply to the First-tier Tribunal.

The legislation enabling the landlord registration service has been presented to Parliament. Subject to approval, it will take effect on December 15, 2026. The Government stated this is an important first step towards establishing a new database of private rented sector properties, intended to empower tenants, support responsible landlords, and aid councils in enforcing the Renters' Rights Act.

Mairi MacRae, director of policy and campaigns at Shelter, commented that the new database has the potential to increase safety and security in private renting by exposing landlords who avoid their responsibilities. She added that for the database to be successful, it must be publicly available to renters with details of previous rents charged at each property. Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), welcomed the decision for HMRC's Valuation Office to handle rent increase challenges, stating it should benefit both tenants and landlords while easing pressure on the tribunal system. He also noted a potential risk of duplication with existing local licensing schemes.

Rollout schedule

The registration scheme will roll out across England in phases. The West Midlands will be the first region, with registration opening on December 15, 2026, and closing on March 14, 2027. The East of England follows on January 15, 2027, closing April 14, 2027. The East Midlands registration opens February 15, 2027, and closes May 14, 2027. The South East window is March 15, 2027, to June 14, 2027. Yorkshire and the Humber will register from April 15, 2027, to July 14, 2027. The North West registration opens May 15, 2027, and closes August 14, 2027. The North East window is June 15, 2027, to September 14, 2027. London landlords must register between July 15, 2027, and October 14, 2027. The South West registration opens August 15, 2027, and closes November 14, 2027.