Tenant groups want Big Brother data-gathering on landlord taxes
Summary
Tenant advocacy groups are pressing the government to expand the forthcoming Private Rented Sector database so it includes more landlord and tenancy data, including rents, eviction grounds and enforcement history. They argue the database should support tenant challenges, improve transparency and help enforcement of the Renters’ Rights Act, while also proposing a landlord fee to fund local authority enforcement.
Why it matters
The database could become a significant compliance and information source for the private rented sector, affecting how landlords, agents and enforcement bodies record and disclose tenancy-related data. Surveyors involved in valuation, lettings or landlord advisory work should monitor the scope of the scheme because it may influence market transparency, compliance obligations and evidence used in disputes.
Key points
- Activist groups want the PRS database to publish more data, including rents charged and eviction grounds.
- They say the database should help tenants challenge above-market rent increases and alleged misuse of possession grounds.
- The groups also want HMRC to compare tax records with declared rents to identify possible tax avoidance.
- A proposed annual fee of £46 per property would be used to fund enforcement.
- The database is due to roll out in the coming months, with early testing already underway.
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