Can Renters in Wales Carry Out Repairs Themselves?

As a renter in Wales, you may face situations where urgent repairs are needed in your home. Understanding whether you can carry out repairs yourself, and what your rights and responsibilities are under Welsh law, is important for protecting your tenancy and your wellbeing.

Your Repair Responsibilities and Legal Rights in Wales

Both tenants and landlords have maintenance responsibilities under Welsh law. Generally, landlords must keep your home safe and in good repair, while you are expected to look after it on a day-to-day basis—for example, by reporting problems promptly, ventilating rooms, and not causing damage.

• Landlords are responsible for repairs to the structure, exterior, plumbing, sanitation, and heating.
• Renters are usually responsible for minor upkeep, like changing lightbulbs or fuses and keeping the property clean.

These duties are set out in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016^[1].

Can You Repair Your Rented Home Yourself in Wales?

In most cases, renters should not carry out major repairs themselves. Doing so without your landlord's written consent may mean you risk breaking your tenancy agreement. Exceptions can apply for urgent, small repairs or if the landlord unreasonably refuses to act—see below for guidance on how to proceed.

Emergency Repairs: When Action Can't Wait

If a repair issue creates an immediate risk to health and safety (like a burst pipe or dangerous electrics), you should:

• Contact your landlord—ideally in writing—explaining the urgent problem.
• If the landlord does not respond in a reasonable time and the issue is critical to safety, you may arrange repairs and claim the cost back. But:
• You must prove you gave your landlord notice and a chance to fix the issue.
• Obtain quotes and use qualified professionals, keeping all receipts.
• Inform your landlord before having the work done, unless absolutely impossible.

This process is often called “repair and deduct.” Welsh law allows it in some situations, but you must follow correct procedures to avoid disputes. For detailed steps, see Shelter Cymru's official advice on doing repairs yourself.

What About Day-to-Day Maintenance?

Minor upkeep—like changing lightbulbs, keeping windows clean, or tightening a loose screw—is usually the renter’s job. For anything more serious, always check your tenancy agreement and talk to your landlord first.

Taking Further Action: If Your Landlord Ignores Repair Requests

If your landlord fails to carry out essential repairs, you have the right to escalate:

• Contact your local council’s housing department (also known as Environmental Health) to report the issue.
• The council can inspect your home and, if necessary, serve an Improvement Notice on your landlord requiring repairs.

Official Forms: What You Might Need

• Application to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales: If disputes persist, renters can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for resolution. For example, to challenge rent increases or some repair disputes.
• Improvement Notice (served by the council, not the renter): Used by the local council to formally require repairs be made. Tenants do not fill this form themselves, but can request the council to intervene. Learn about Improvement Notices under the Housing Act 2004.

Always seek advice before withholding rent or taking legal action, as these steps carry risks.

What Does the Law Say?

Your rights and obligations are governed primarily by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which came fully into force in December 2022^[1]. The Act sets out minimum housing standards and processes for repairs, plus protections for renters if landlords fail in their duties.

For official information and guidance, visit Welsh Government advice on repairs to your rented home.

FAQs for Renters in Wales: Repairs and DIY

1. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't do repairs?
   Generally, you should not withhold rent: this can risk eviction. Instead, escalate the issue via your council or seek official advice.
2. Can I make my landlord pay me back for urgent repairs?
   Possibly—if you followed the correct process (notified landlord, gave time, used professionals), you may claim reasonable costs back. Always keep evidence.
3. Do I need my landlord’s permission for small repairs?
   For minor tasks (like changing a fuse), usually not. For anything involving structure, electrics, or plumbing, always ask for written consent first.
4. What if my property fails minimum housing standards?
   Contact your local council’s housing team—they can inspect and act against the landlord if breaches are found.
5. Who do I contact for a dispute about repairs?
   Start with your landlord, then contact your local council, and if unresolved, you can approach the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• Major repairs are your landlord’s job—do not carry them out yourself without agreement and following proper steps.
• For emergencies, you may be able to arrange repairs and claim costs back, but evidence and procedure are vital.
• If repair issues persist, escalate to your local council, and remember there are official bodies to help mediate disputes.

Staying informed and keeping records is the best way to protect your home and your rights in Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Repairs to your rented home – Official guidance on rights and landlord duties.
• Shelter Cymru – Free, independent advice for renters across Wales (including urgent repairs and challenging poor conditions).
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Where renters and landlords can resolve housing disputes.
• GOV.UK: Private Renting Repairs – General UK government repair rights guide.

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – see official text and updates
2. Housing Act 2004: Improvement Notices

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