Are Template Tenancy Agreements Legal for Renters in Wales?

Understanding your tenancy agreement is essential for a safe and secure renting experience in Wales. Many landlords offer template tenancy agreements—pre-drafted standard contracts commonly found online or from lettings agencies. But are these templates actually valid under Welsh law, and do they protect your rights?

What Makes a Tenancy Agreement Valid in Wales?

Since 1 December 2022, most private renters and landlords in Wales operate under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016¹. This legislation reformed tenancies, introducing standard occupation contracts and new rules for written agreements, notices, and rights. The term “tenancy agreement” is now called an “occupation contract” in Wales.

For an agreement to be legally valid in Wales, it must:

• Be in writing and provided to the renter (typically within 14 days of moving in)
• Contain all the fundamental terms required by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
• State the property address, parties involved, rent amount, start date, and other prescribed terms
• Include any supplementary or additional terms relevant to the rental (e.g., pet clauses, maintenance)

Template tenancy agreements can be valid—but only if they meet these legal requirements. If a template misses required information or uses outdated English or Welsh law, it may put you or your landlord at risk. The Welsh Government provides official model written statements for different types of tenancy situations, which landlords are encouraged to use.

Model Written Statement: The Official Template

The Welsh Government’s Model Written Statement acts as an official template for occupation contracts. It includes all required terms and gives both parties confidence in its validity.

• Name: Model Written Statement (no form number)
• Use: Provided by the landlord to the contract holder (renter) at the start of the tenancy or within 14 days. For example, when you move into a new flat and your landlord hands you this document, check that it matches the model wording and details your rent, address, and tenancy terms.
• View and download the official Model Written Statement templates

What If My Landlord Uses an Old or Incorrect Template?

If a landlord gives you a tenancy agreement based on English law, pre-2022 templates, or one missing key clauses, it might not fully comply with Welsh law. This does not mean your rental is invalid, but you may have stronger rights and could challenge unfair or missing terms.

The law demands that landlords provide the written statement and update it if the contract changes. Otherwise, compensation may be owed to renters.

Other Essential Forms and Notices for Renters

Welsh renting law uses various official forms and notices that renters should be aware of:

• Notice to End a Contract – Section 173 Notice: Used by landlords to end a standard occupation contract. Landlords must give at least 6 months’ notice, on the correct form, after the first 6 months of your occupancy. Learn more and download forms from Ending your tenancy guidance.
• Rent Increase Notice: Landlords must use the official form to propose rent increases, giving at least 2 months’ notice. Renters can challenge rent increases at the Residential Property Tribunal Wales if they believe the proposed rent is unfair.
• Alteration Notice: If the landlord changes the terms of your contract, they must provide a notice with the amendments in writing. Find out more about contract changes.

These official forms help make sure changes, rent increases, or potential evictions follow the correct legal process.

Who Handles Disputes About Contract Validity?

If there is a disagreement about whether your agreement is valid, or if you need to challenge an eviction or rent increase, contact Residential Property Tribunal Wales. They are the main tribunal for resolving housing disputes between renters and landlords in Wales.²

1. Can my landlord use an online tenancy agreement template from a generic website?
   Only if that template fulfils the legal requirements set by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, including all mandatory terms. It’s safer to ask for or refer to the Welsh Government’s Model Written Statement.
2. What should I do if my written agreement is missing or incorrect?
   Request the appropriate written statement from your landlord. If they do not provide it, you may be entitled to compensation. You can also contact Rent Smart Wales or your local council for support.
3. Does my occupation contract need to be in Welsh?
   No, but if you request it in Welsh, your landlord must provide it in Welsh within 14 days.
4. Can I challenge my contract terms if I think they are unfair or unlawful?
   Yes. You can seek help from Rent Smart Wales, your local authority, or bring your case to Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
5. What is the difference between a tenancy agreement and an occupation contract?
   In Wales, “occupation contract” is the official legal term (under the 2016 Act) for agreements between renters and landlords, replacing what used to be known as tenancy agreements.

Conclusion: Key Points for Renters in Wales

• Template tenancy agreements are valid only if they meet Wales’s legal requirements under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.
• The safest option is the official Model Written Statement provided by the Welsh Government.
• If your agreement is unclear or missing key terms, request an updated version and seek help from support services if needed.

Your occupation contract is a crucial document for your rights and security. Make sure it reflects the law and use official resources for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Renting Homes Wales: Housing Law Guidance – Official policy and guides for renters and landlords
• Model Written Statement Templates – Download official occupation contract templates
• Rent Smart Wales – Tenancy support, landlord registration, and help with disputes
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes
• GOV.UK: Private Renting Information

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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