A database of rogue lettings agents and landlords goes live tomorrow but there is concern at how effective it will be, given that it won’t be made public.

The database, first mentioned in the Housing and Planning Act 2016, had initially been expected last October.

The list, which will only be available to the central Government and local authorities, will include those with criminal convictions and those who have been issued with banning orders for a range of offences.

It will not be available to landlords or tenants, or to employers in the industry seeking to vet job applicants.

David Cox, chief executive of ARLA Propertymark, said: “When this legislation was first announced, we were wildly supportive – anything which will help eradicate bad letting agents and landlords has our full support.

“However, the outcome is disappointing. The database won’t be public, which means no one will be able to see it and therefore letting agents and landlords who are on the list can continue operating with impunity.

“This appears to be a pointless exercise. If the list were made public – like the equivalent for estate agents – rogue agents and landlords would leave the market for good.”