When a landlord changes, your tenancy usually continues on the same terms and your basic rights as a tenant remain intact. This guide explains, in plain language, what happens to a protected deposit, how rent increases and notice periods work in Wales, and practical steps to take if a new landlord won’t show proof of deposit protection or tries to change terms unfairly. It is written for renters and tenants who want clear actions, examples and the official routes to resolve disputes without legal jargon. Where relevant, this article points to official forms and the tribunal that can help if informal resolution fails.
What happens when a landlord changes?
Your tenancy does not end just because ownership of the property changes. The new landlord inherits the tenancy and the obligations that came with it, including any duties about a tenancy deposit that was taken when the tenancy began. If you had a fixed-term tenancy, the contract still runs until it ends unless you or the landlord agree otherwise. If you are on a periodic tenancy, normal notice rules apply.
Deposit rights and practical steps
If your deposit was protected, the incoming landlord must either have taken over responsibility for that deposit with the existing scheme or provide evidence that they now hold it in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme. If you cannot get clear proof, you have options to recover the money or challenge deductions.
- Check whether your deposit is protected by a government-backed scheme and whether the new landlord has provided the required information.
- Ask the new landlord for written proof of transfer or the scheme reference and the prescribed information.
- Contact the deposit scheme named by the landlord to confirm the deposit status and, if needed, use their dispute service.
- Gather evidence: tenancy agreement, rent receipts, photos and any written exchanges about the deposit.
If a deposit scheme or the landlord refuses to cooperate, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision on the deposit or any unlawful deduction. Official guidance and the online application route are available for tenants to start this process directly on GOV.UK.[1]
Rent, increases and notice periods
A new landlord cannot lawfully raise the rent during a fixed term unless your tenancy agreement allows it. For periodic tenancies, landlords must follow the legal procedure to increase rent (typically a written notice under the relevant legislation) and cannot evict or penalise you for asking questions or exercising your rights. If you think a rent increase is unfair, you can challenge it through the First-tier Tribunal.
- Check your tenancy agreement for any clause about rent review or notice requirements before the landlord raises the rent.
- If a lawful procedure is not followed, consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal to decide whether the increase is reasonable.
- Keep a record of any proposed increase and any correspondence with the landlord in case you need to present evidence.
If you need to apply to the First-tier Tribunal
Tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for decisions about deposit disputes, rent and some other tenancy issues. The tribunal can order repayment of a deposit, set compensation for failures to protect a deposit, or decide on disputed rent increases. Apply online or follow the GOV.UK guidance to start a claim for residential property matters.[2]
- Prepare your evidence: copies of the tenancy agreement, deposit receipts, scheme reference (if any), photos and a short timeline of events.
- Fill in the tribunal application following GOV.UK instructions and attach supporting documents.
- Attend any hearing (remote or in person) and bring originals where possible; the tribunal will make a written decision you can rely on to enforce orders.
FAQ
- Can a new landlord keep my deposit without telling me?
- No. The new landlord must either take over the deposit in the same protection scheme or provide evidence they hold it. If you are not given proof, you can ask for the deposit back or start a dispute.
- Will a change of landlord end my tenancy?
- Generally no. Ownership change normally transfers the tenancy to the new landlord and your contract continues on the same terms unless both parties agree to a change.
- How do I challenge a rent increase after a landlord change?
- If the increase is not in line with your contract or statutory procedure, ask the landlord for written reasons and evidence, then consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal for a resolution.
- How long will a tribunal decision take?
- Timescales vary. Simple deposit cases may be resolved faster than contested rent hearings; check the tribunal’s guidance for current timescales and be prepared with clear evidence.
How-To
- Check whether your deposit is protected and note the scheme name and reference.
- Ask the new landlord in writing for proof of transfer, the prescribed information and a copy of the tenancy agreement.
- If proof is not provided, contact the named deposit scheme or use their dispute process to request action.
- If the scheme can’t resolve it, apply to the First-tier Tribunal with your evidence and a clear timeline.
Key Takeaways
- Your tenancy usually continues unchanged when a landlord changes, including deposit protections.
- Ask for written proof of deposit protection and keep all records and receipts.
- If informal steps fail, use the First-tier Tribunal to resolve deposit or rent disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Rent Smart Wales for guidance on landlord registration and tenant information.
- Visit the Welsh Government page on renting in Wales for rights under Welsh law.
- Use the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance on GOV.UK to apply for deposit or rent decisions.
