Actions to Take if Your Landlord Breaks the Law in Wales

If you're renting in Wales and believe your landlord has acted illegally—such as failing to carry out repairs, trying to evict you unfairly, or not following renting rules—it's vital to know your rights and options. Welsh housing law offers clear protections for renters. This page explains what you can do, who can help, and where to find official forms and support in Wales.

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter in Wales

Welsh renting law changed in December 2022 with the introduction of the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. This law sets out rules for landlords and renters (called 'contract-holders' in Wales), covering things like tenancy agreements, repairs, notice periods, and eviction procedures.

• Your landlord must provide a written 'occupation contract' outlining your rights and responsibilities.
• Landlords must keep the property in a safe and good repair.
• Notice periods and eviction rules are now set in law, with extra protections against illegal eviction.

If your landlord doesn't follow these rules, they're breaking the law. Common examples include ignoring requests to repair serious hazards, asking you to leave without correct notice, or harassing you to make you move out.

Steps to Take if Your Landlord Breaks the Law

If you suspect your landlord is acting unlawfully, here are practical steps you can take:

• Document Everything: Keep a record of all communication, photos of any disrepair, and copies of your contract.
• Contact Your Landlord in Writing: Politely explain the issue and give them an opportunity to fix it.
• Seek Advice and Support: Before escalating, you can get free help from advice services (see "Resources" below).
• Contact Your Local Council: Welsh councils are responsible for enforcement. Report issues like serious disrepair, unsafe living conditions, or unlawful eviction to your council’s housing department. Find your local council’s contact using the GOV.UK council finder.
• Make a Complaint to Rent Smart Wales: If your landlord is unregistered or a letting agent is not licensed, report them to Rent Smart Wales.
• Consider Tribunal Action: For some issues, you can apply to the tribunal for a decision (see below for details on forms and procedures).

Example Official Forms and How to Use Them

• RHW23: Application about failure to provide written statement of occupation contract – Use this form if your landlord hasn't given you the required written contract.
  Practical example: If you moved in after December 1, 2022, and didn't receive a contract within 14 days, submit RHW23 directly to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
• RHW24: Application about the return of a holding deposit – If your landlord has kept your holding deposit unfairly, fill out RHW24. Attach supporting evidence and submit to the Tribunal.

For more Tribunal-related forms, visit the official Tribunal forms library.

How to Raise a Dispute with the Residential Property Tribunal Wales

If you can't resolve the problem with your landlord or local council, the Residential Property Tribunal Wales is the official body handling disputes about rent, contracts, and certain landlord breaches. They offer a straightforward application process with clear guidance for renters.

• Check that your issue is something the Tribunal can decide (e.g., illegal eviction, lack of written contract).
• Gather your evidence: letters, emails, photos, copies of your contract, and official complaints.
• Choose and complete the right application form (see previous section).
• Send your application with evidence to the Tribunal (either online or by post).

Taking your case to the Tribunal is a legal step, but the process is designed to be accessible and not require a solicitor. For most renters, this offers a fair way to have a dispute decided independently.

What Laws Protect Renters in Wales?

Most issues between renters and landlords in Wales are covered by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. Some related regulations—especially on safety and standards—are set out by Welsh Government or local authorities.

• Illegal eviction: Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, Sections 57-62
• Repairs and conditions: Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, Section 91; Fitness for Human Habitation Regulations

For specialist advice, see the official guidance for tenants from Welsh Government.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if my landlord tries to evict me without notice?
   If your landlord tries to evict you without proper notice or a court order, this may be an illegal eviction. Contact your local council immediately and seek advice. You can also apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for help.
2. Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren't done?
   You must keep paying your rent even if there are outstanding repairs. Instead, report the problem to your landlord in writing and, if unresolved, ask your local council for help or consider tribunal action.
3. How do I complain about my landlord failing to provide a contract?
   If you haven't received a written contract, complete the RHW23 Tribunal form and send it with supporting evidence.
4. Is my landlord allowed to increase rent whenever they like?
   No, rent increases are regulated. Your landlord must follow rules on notice and timing under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. If in doubt, ask the Tribunal for guidance.
5. Who can help if I feel harassed by my landlord?
   Harassment by your landlord is unlawful. Reach out to your council’s housing team, Rent Smart Wales, or an advice charity immediately.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• If your landlord breaks the law in Wales, there are clear legal steps to protect you under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.
• Document everything, use official forms when needed, and know that councils and the Residential Property Tribunal Wales can offer help.
• Support and free advice are available; don't hesitate to ask for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Property Tribunal Wales: Independent disputes and application forms
• Rent Smart Wales: Check landlord registration, report unlicensed landlords
• Welsh Government: Tenant guidance: Official guidance on your rights
• Find your local council: Report issues, get housing advice
• Shelter Cymru: Free help and legal advice for renters in Wales

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – Full text
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Official portal
3. Rent Smart Wales – Registration and enforcement
4. Welsh Government: Renting Homes guidance for tenants
5. GOV.UK: Find your local council
6. Shelter Cymru – Renter support

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