The Rogue Landlords Database, which was launched in 2018, could be opened up to prospective tenants under new government plans. 

It currently has only 10 names on it but it is aiming to include names of all landlords who have been banned for failing to make a property habitable or have been convicted of serious offences, including serious fire safety breaches.

Local authorities are the only people able to access the list at present, but under a package of rent reforms from the government, this could change. 

It could be a way to protect tenants from living in dangerous properties that are a risk to their own lives.

"This database has the potential to ensure that poor-quality homes across the country are improved and the worst landlords are banned, and it is right that we unlock this crucial information for new and prospective tenants," said Communities Secretary James Brokenshire.

"Landlords should be in no doubt that they must provide decent homes or face the consequences."

The move will be open to a 12-week consultation, which will also consider whether to widen the scope of the rogue list to more housing-related offences.

Original Source
BBC