Do You Have To Register as a Landlord in the UK?
There is often plenty to sort out as a landlord before you’re ready to welcome tenants into your property.
This includes registering as a landlord. Yet, there are different rules for different parts of the UK when it comes to registering.
If you’re looking to become a landlord in the UK, keep reading to understand whether or not you are required to register.
The rules vary for each country in the UK
England
If you’re a soon-to-be landlord in England, whether or not you’re required to register as a landlord depends on your location.
Some parts of England do require you to register, and others do not. It is therefore very important that you check with your local council to find out whether or not it is necessary for your area.
However, even if your area does not legally require you to register as a landlord, it is advised that you do voluntarily.
There are voluntary schemes offered by the National Landlords Association (NLA) and the Residential Landlords Association (RLA). Not only do these schemes offer peace of mind for your tenant, they also offer you support as a landlord.
Scotland
For landlords looking to rent out a property in Scotland, it is a law that you are registered with your local authority.
While many councils in Scotland do this automatically, as a landlord, it is up to you to check that it has been done. It’s best not to assume you have been automatically registered, only to find out later on that you have been breaking the law.
You can use this site to register as a landlord in Scotland.
Wales
In Wales, if you are a landlord letting a property on an assured, assured shorthold or regulated tenancy, it is vital that you register with RentSmart.
If you self-manage your property, you must also have a licence, which is obtained by completing a training course.
Northern Ireland
As a landlord in Northern Ireland, if you are renting out a property with a private tenancy agreement, you must register. Yet, if you are a homeowner renting out a room, you do not need to register.
The best way to register as a landlord in Northern Ireland is online or by completing this registration form.
What happens if I fail to register?
If you are required to register as a landlord and do not, you are not legally allowed to rent out your property.
If you do rent your property out without registering, you may be banned from being a landlord in the future and face a large fine.
In Scotland, you could face a fine of up to £50,000, in Wales a fine of £150-£250 and in Northern Ireland fines of up to £2,000.
Do I need to renew my landlord licence?
You are required to renew your licence, but it depends on where in the UK you are renting.
In Northern Ireland and Scotland, you must renew your licence every three years and face a fine if you do not do it in time.
In Wales, you must renew your licence every five years.
In England, you must check with your local council to see when or if you are required to re-register.
So, as you can see, whether or not you are required to register and how this is done is purely dependent on where you are looking to rent out your property.
Make sure to check your local guidelines carefully.
