Nationwide has launched a new platform aimed at buy-to-let landlords and mortgage brokers, with a view to improving rental standards across the UK and ultimately winning greater market share in the sector.

The Landlord Works provides a full suite of tools and services via the Nationwide platform, including property management and important guides.

Free downloadable content includes a checklist for starting a new tenancy and an A-Z guide providing tips and insights for those just starting out.

It also offers portfolio management, designed to help landlords manage their properties and their finances. It also provides BTL landlords with the ability to manage important documents, such as gas safety certificates, electrical inspections and energy performance certificates (EPCs).

Sara Bennison, chief product and marketing officer at Nationwide, said: “The private rented sector is in dire need of reform, but to get there, landlords need to be given every ounce of support.

“Today, being a landlord is more complex than ever, and we want to make managing property more straightforward for both landlords and tenants, by giving support where it is needed.

“We know the huge role that brokers play in supporting landlords and we hope the launch of this free service will help with their day-to-day interactions with them, by providing useful advice, resources and guidance.”

A 20% discount will be offered to landlords when submitting their annual self-assessment tax return via the tax software tool, and landlords will be able to use it to track expenses, income and get access to information they need regarding their tax obligations and options.

The Landlord Works also offers a rental, sales and property comparison valuation tool which will enable landlords to estimate how much their property is worth and potential levels of income.

BTL landlords will also be able to upload details of all their properties, track rental finances and any key dates associated with each of their properties, as well as link bank accounts to their profile.

Paul Wootton, director of home propositions at Nationwide, commented: “350 landlords a day are searching for support online with their tax returns, which is why we believe the launch of The Landlord Works will be a huge asset to a large number of property owners.

“Many landlords keep track of their information in various piles of paper throughout the house, so this will benefit them as it enables all information relating to tax returns to be kept in one secure place online.”