England’s national landlord register: what letting agents must decide now

# Quick summary

# What the register changes for landlords and agents Registration responsibility sits with the landlord: the landlord must start and complete the registration process. The service will allow an agent or property manager to provide certain information on a landlord's behalf, with guidance to follow before launch. Registration deadlines are determined by the location of each property rather than where the landlord or agent lives or is based.

# Practical implications agents must address now

• Understand the timetable. Agents managing properties across multiple regions will need a system to track different regional deadlines and three-month compliance windows tied to each property.

• Review and update terms of business. Check whether existing agreements cover registration support. If not, draft clear contract language that specifies the scope of work, who retains legal responsibility, and the fee structure.

• Be explicit about fees. Any charge for registration assistance should be transparent, proportionate, and explained in advance. Avoid vague line items such as a general "compliance administration fee." Record how fees were calculated and obtain landlord consent in writing.

• Clarify responsibility for accuracy. Even when agents supply information, the landlord remains legally responsible for ensuring submitted details are complete and correct. Agreements should state which party confirms and signs off on submitted information to prevent both sides assuming the other has acted.

• Plan resource impact. What looks like a ten-minute task at scale can become substantial administrative work across hundreds of landlords and properties. Build capacity and workflows now rather than reacting at launch.

# Risks to manage Agents can face commercial and redress risk if a service they offer — or the fee charged — is later challenged. To reduce exposure, keep records of agreements and communications, specify permitted charges, and document which party completed or verified each registration.

There is also potential for confusion when landlords hold properties in multiple regions. Landlords may prefer to register all properties early, which could increase short-term demand for agent support. Agents should advise landlords on regional deadlines and options.

# Immediate next steps for agents

• Audit your portfolio to identify properties across regions and calendar their registration windows.
• Update terms of business and client onboarding templates to cover registration support and fees.
• Draft a clear service offering for registration assistance, including scope, fee, and handoff/verification steps.
• Signpost landlords to GOV.UK Alerts to receive the forthcoming official guidance that will define what agents can submit on a landlord's behalf.

# Bottom line The register will increase transparency in the private rented sector, but it will shift administrative work and decision points onto agents and landlords. Agents who act now — by clarifying contractual terms, making pricing transparent, and establishing processes to manage regional deadlines — can reduce legal and commercial exposure and offer a clearer service to landlords.