Questions landlords ask

Short, sourced answers about the new register.

• Do I need to register an empty property?

  Not yet. For now the duty covers properties that are let, or that become occupied during the rollout. The government has said later legislation will require you to register an empty property before you advertise it.

• Can my letting agent register my property for me?

  No. You have to start and complete the registration yourself. Your agent can upload some of the information, but you stay legally responsible for all of it.

• How much does it cost to register a rental property?

  The government says £65 per property per year. The fee is charged per property, not per landlord. During the rollout the fee is pro-rated.

• What happens if I don't register my rental property?

  Your council can fine you up to £7,000, and up to £40,000 (or prosecute) for repeat breaches or false information. You also cannot get a possession order on most grounds while you are in breach.

• Is my deadline based on where I live or where the property is?

  Where the property is. If you live in London but let a flat in Birmingham, that flat's deadline is the West Midlands one: 14 March 2027.

• Does the register cover Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland?

  No. This register is for rental property in England only. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland each have their own landlord registration rules.