Are you thinking about switching bedrooms or moving to another room in your shared house or flat in Wales? Many renters wonder if their landlord can raise the rent just because they decide to move from one room to another. Understanding your legal rights is important, especially with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 now in full effect. This guide explains what the rules say and what you should watch out for as a renter in Wales.
When Can Rent Be Increased in Wales?
Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, landlords must follow specific rules when increasing rent for standard occupation contracts (the most typical renting arrangement since December 2022).
- Your rent cannot usually be increased more than once per year.
- Landlords must give at least 2 months' written notice before any rent increase takes effect.
- The notice must be given using the official form, called a 'section 13 notice' (Form RHW12 in Wales).
Does Moving Rooms Count as a Reason for Rent Increase?
Simply moving from one room to another in the same property does not automatically allow the landlord to raise your rent. The key points to consider are:
- If your occupation contract (tenancy agreement) continues unchanged and you just swap rooms, rent increases must still follow the required process and notice periods.
- If a new contract is created—for example, if you sign a fresh agreement with different terms because of moving rooms—the landlord can set a new rent. Always check if you are being asked to sign a new occupation contract.
- If you are moving because of other changes (like moving from a single room to a much larger one or one with an en-suite), you may be offered a new contract with different rent. But you have the right to understand and negotiate any changes first.
How Rent Increases Must Be Handled
Any lawful rent increase in Wales must follow the process set out in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016:
- The landlord must use the RHW12 form: Notice of Rent Increase.
- You must receive this completed form at least two months before the new rent starts.
- Rent can only be increased once every 12 months during a periodic (rolling) occupation contract.
Example: How the RHW12 Form Is Used
Suppose it's April and your landlord wants to raise rents starting July. They must complete and deliver the RHW12 form by the end of April. This gives you a legal window to prepare, ask questions or consider your options.
Challenging an Unfair Rent Increase
If you believe the rent increase is unreasonable (for example, much higher than similar properties in your area), you have the right to challenge it. You can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales.
- You must apply before the new rent is due to start.
- The tribunal will review the proposed rent and decide if it is fair, considering local market rents.
If you decide to challenge, keep all written communications and official forms as evidence.
The process is there to ensure both landlords and renters are treated fairly and rent is set at a reasonable market level.
What to Do If Asked to Sign a New Contract After Moving Rooms
Sometimes, a landlord may ask you to sign a new contract—potentially with a higher rent—because you are moving to a different room. You are not obliged to accept terms you do not agree with:
- Read any proposed new occupation contract carefully before signing.
- Ask the landlord to confirm if your deposit, notice period, and other terms are changing.
- If you have questions, seek independent advice before signing.
Summary
In most cases, rent cannot lawfully be increased just for moving to a different room unless a new contract is signed—or a proper rent increase notice is served. Always ask for written clarification and seek advice if unsure.
FAQs About Moving Rooms and Rent Increases in Wales
- Can my landlord raise my rent just for moving to a different room?
Generally, no. Unless you sign a new contract with new terms, the landlord must follow the official process to increase your rent. This includes giving you the RHW12 rent increase form with at least 2 months' notice. - What is the RHW12 form and when is it used?
The RHW12 form is an official notice landlords in Wales must use to inform you of a rent increase in a periodic standard occupation contract. It's given when the landlord wants to increase the rent and must be served at least two months before the new rent takes effect. Download the RHW12 form from the Welsh Government. - Can my rent be increased more than once a year?
No. Under Welsh law, landlords can only increase rent once in any 12-month period for periodic occupation contracts. - What if I think the new rent is too high?
You can challenge the rent increase by applying to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales before the new rent starts. The tribunal will compare your rent to the local average and decide. - Does my deposit change if I move rooms?
If your contract and rental terms do not change, your deposit should usually stay the same. If you sign a new contract, ask the landlord how your deposit will be handled and check that it remains protected in a government-approved scheme.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales
- Simply moving to a different room doesn’t allow your landlord to increase your rent unless you sign a new contract or receive a valid rent increase notice (RHW12).
- All rent increases must follow the legal process: official notice, correct form, and adequate notice period.
- You can challenge any increase you feel is unfair through the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales before the higher rent takes effect.
Staying informed and asking questions before signing anything new will protect your rights as a renter.
Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales
- Welsh Government: Renting Homes Wales guidance
- Shelter Cymru: Free independent advice for Welsh renters
- Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – for challenging rent increases
- Contact your local council's housing options team for additional support
