Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Team from a report by Letting Agent Today. Read the original article for full details.
PRS Database Entries Could Be Shared With HMRC, Minister Confirms
The government has admitted that information submitted to the new PRS landlord database could be shared with other agencies, including HMRC. The disclosure came in a written answer to a Parliamentary question from Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook.
With the new PRS landlord database due to begin roll-out next month, the admission will be of direct interest to letting agents and inventory clerks preparing for the scheme's introduction.
Minister Sets Out Position on Data Access
In the written answer, Pennycook said: "The government is considering how different agencies and organisations, including HM Revenue and Customs and local authorities, will be able to access the relevant data collected on the landlord registration service to support their statutory functions."
The minister's response indicates that no final decision has been announced on how data sharing will operate in practice. The government is still considering the potential benefits and risks of allowing other agencies and organisations to access the relevant data collected through the landlord registration service.
What This Means for Letting Agents
The confirmation that HMRC and local authorities are among the bodies being considered for data access is significant for letting agents and inventory clerks, who will need to ensure the information they and their landlord clients submit to the database is accurate and complete.
With roll-out due to begin next month, agents may wish to review their internal processes for collecting and holding landlord information ahead of registration. The source report does not specify which data fields would be shared, the timescale for any data-sharing arrangements, or the outcome of the government's assessment.
Source: Letting Agent Today