Landlord software for UK landlords: what to look for
If you manage your own rentals, 2026 brought a lot more to keep track of: rolling tenancies, once-a-year rent rules, a new landlord database and Making Tax Digital. Here's what good landlord software should do for you.
The must-have features
| Feature | Why it matters now |
|---|---|
| Compliance reminders | Gas safety, EICR, EPC, deposit protection and licences all expire. Missing one can mean fines or losing possession rights. |
| Rent tracking and arrears alerts | Without Section 21, a clear rent ledger is key evidence. |
| Rent increase dates | Increases are limited to once a year with two months' notice. |
| Document storage | Certificates, agreements and notices, with dates of service. |
| Database readiness | Registration opens from 15 December 2026 at £65 per property each year. |
| Expenses and tax records | Making Tax Digital means digital records and quarterly updates for many landlords. |
Questions to ask before you choose
- Is it built for UK rules? Some popular apps started overseas and treat UK compliance as an add-on.
- How is it priced? Watch for per-property charges that rise as your portfolio grows.
- Can you get your data out? When Property Hawk closed in July 2026, landlords who hadn't exported their records lost access to them.
- Will they move your data in? Switching is much easier if someone does it for you.
- Is it simple? If it takes a weekend to set up, you won't keep it up to date.
What Landlord Friendly is being built to do
- UK-first from day one: built around the Renters' Rights Act, the landlord database and UK certificates.
- Smart reminders that suggest actions: not just "certificate due", but "book your gas safety check this week".
- Simple, honest pricing: no charges creeping up per property.
- Free data migration: send us your spreadsheet or old system export and we'll set you up.
- Your data is yours: export everything, any time.
Frequently asked questions
Do small landlords need landlord software?
Not by law, but the Renters' Rights Act, the landlord database and Making Tax Digital all mean more dates, records and evidence to keep. Software keeps it in one place and reminds you before deadlines.
How much does landlord software cost in the UK?
Most landlord software for small portfolios costs roughly £5 to £25 a month. Some charge per property, which can add up as you grow.
What features matter most?
For self-managing landlords: certificate and compliance reminders, rent tracking with arrears alerts, document storage, expense records for tax, and tools for the Renters' Rights Act rules.
Is there free landlord software?
Some tools have free tiers for a few properties. Property Hawk, a long-running free option, closed its Property Manager software at the end of July 2026.
Related: Landlord software comparison · Free landlord software · Property Hawk alternative
Last reviewed 25 October 2026. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice. Rules change, so check the official sources before acting.