A Guide to the Rogue Landlords Database

The Housing and Planning Act 2016 introduced new enforcement tools against landlords and agents who have committed serious housing offences. In severe cases, local authorities can issue banning orders, which prohibit a landlord from letting or managing rental properties. When a banning order is issued, the landlord should also be added to the Rogue Landlord Database.

What is the Rogue Landlord Database?

🏠 Launched in 2018, the Database of Rogue Landlords and Property Agents is a government-run resource available in England

🏠 It tracks landlords and lettings agents who have been penalised for housing offences

🏠 The database is part of government efforts to protect tenants and improve rental standards by holding negligent landlords and agents accountable

Who Can Access the Database?

• Only local authorities can make entries and have access to the database, it is not open to the general public
• However, you can make a check on a landlord or agent via https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/housing-and-land/renting-home/check-landlord-or-agent

How Long Do Landlords or Agents Remain On It?

• Minimum Term – typically, entries stay on the database for at least 12 months and up to 2 years
• Discretion of Authorities – the exact duration is determined by the local housing authority based on the nature of the offence and any risk posed to tenants
• Multiple Offences – each offence can carry its own listing duration, meaning individuals can appear on the database for overlapping or extended periods

How This Good Landlord Guide Can Keep You Off the Rogue Landlord Database

Remain Compliant with All Regulations

1. Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018

• • Requires all rented homes to be safe and free from serious hazards (i.e. damp, mould, poor ventilation or structural problems)
  • Tenants can take legal action if their home doesn’t meet these standards

Read our full guide on the Homes Act 2018 here

2. Section 21 & Section 8

• • The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill is set to change the process of how to legally evict tenants
  • Section 8 will become more pivotal
  • Landlords who appear on the Rogue Landlord Database may be restricted from serving valid eviction notices
  • Remaining compliant with Section 21 regulations is essential, as misuse or unlawful evictions can lead to enforcement action and potential inclusion on the Rogue Landlord Database

3. Prioritising Tenant Safety

• • As a landlord or agent, staying compliant with regulations and ensuring the safety of your tenants and property is a legal requirement
  • Ensure you are up to date on the latest regulations surrounding important issues such as fire safety, carbon monoxide alarms and Awaab’s Law

Make Sure Your Property is Ready for New Tenants

Here are 5 keys tips to ensure your rental property is ready for new tenants:

1️⃣ Complete Gas Safety Checks – ensure you have a current Gas Safety Certificate in place and all provided appliances have been checked

2️⃣ Test Alarms and Check Utilities – make sure you test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working property and inspect all pipes, radiators, and water systems for leaks or pressure issues

3️⃣ Maintenance and Repairs – have any necessary maintenance or repairs carried out before the tenants are due to move in

4️⃣ Provide Compliance Documents – ensure the tenants receive all required documentation such as the EPC, How To Rent Guide, and deposit protection details

5️⃣ Offer a Welcome Pack (optional but recommended!) – a simple welcome letter, local information, appliance instructions or emergency contact numbers can set a positive tone and build a good landlord-tenant relationship

These steps not only support legal compliance but also help to ensure a smooth, professional start to the tenancy – who wouldn’t want that?

Mid-Term Inspections

Mid-term inspections are a valuable tool for protecting landlords:

• Early Issue Detection – regular inspections allow landlords to identify maintenance issues before they escalate into costly repairs
• Tenancy Compliance – they help ensure tenants are adhering to the terms of their tenancy agreement (i.e. no subletting, unauthorised pets, or misuse of the property)
• Legal Protection – documented mid-term reviews provide clear evidence of the property’s condition during the tenancy, which may be crucial in resolving disputes
• Health & Safety – these inspections check that essential safety measures (such as smoke and carbon monoxide alarms) remain functional and that there are no unreported hazards developing (i.e. damp and mould), supporting compliance with legal obligations
• Improved Tenant Relations – professional, but not intrusive, inspections show tenants that the landlord is proactive and responsible, often leading to better care of the property and good tenant behaviour!

It is recommended that inspections are conducted at intervals of 3 or 6 month slots throughout a tenancy.

Maintain Inventories to Avoid Disputes

Maintaining detailed, up-to-date inventories at Check In and Check Out is essential for protecting landlords and avoiding disputes throughout the tenancy.

✅ Clear Record of Property Condition

✅ Evidence for Dispute Resolution

✅ Supports Deposit Deductions

✅ Legal and Compliance Safeguard

✅ Streamlined Property Management

At Eclipse Inventories, we provide accurate, photographic inventory reports that support landlords and agents from the start of the tenancy through to check-out. Our reports are legally robust, easy to reference, and ideal for avoiding disputes – so you can rent with confidence.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, landlords and tenants should carry out their own research or seek professional legal guidance where appropriate.