Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act has been in force since 1 May 2026 — Section 21 abolished, fixed terms gone, and the new periodic-tenancy regime live. Attention now turns to the next wave of reforms: the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database and the Landlord Ombudsman. Here is what is expected, and when.
The PRS Database
All landlords of assured tenancies will be legally required to register themselves and their properties on a new PRS Database, along with compliance information. The government’s roadmap indicates the database is expected to launch from late 2026, rolled out in phases by region. Importantly, registration will be required before landlords can use certain possession grounds, so it will not be optional for anyone who may need to recover a property.
The Landlord Ombudsman
A new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman will give tenants free, binding dispute resolution without going to court. All private landlords in England with assured tenancies will be required to join, including those who use a managing agent. Mandatory membership is currently expected by 2028, with further detail to follow.
What landlords should do now
- Keep your compliance paperwork (gas, electrical, EPC, deposit protection) organised and to hand — you will need it to register.
- Watch for confirmed launch dates and the regional rollout order.
- Note that the government updated its Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet on 8 June 2026 with added detail on assured periodic tenancies.
This article is general information for UK landlords, not legal advice. Check the current position or take professional advice. Sources: GOV.UK implementation roadmap and the NRLA key dates.
