Claiming Rent Back for Illegal Eviction in Wales: Your Rights and Next Steps

If you have been forced out of your home without a proper legal process in Wales, you might wonder whether you can claim back rent from your landlord. Illegal evictions are serious breaches of your rights—this article explains how compensation works, what laws protect you, and step-by-step action you can take to get your rent back.

What Is an Illegal Eviction in Wales?

An illegal eviction happens when a landlord removes a tenant without following the correct legal procedure. In Wales, landlords must follow the processes set by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, including serving official notice and obtaining a possession order from the court. If you have not received the proper notice or court order, your eviction may be unlawful.

Can You Claim Rent Back for Illegal Eviction?

Yes. Under Welsh law, if you have been illegally evicted, you may be able to apply for a Rent Repayment Order (RRO). This could entitle you to get back up to 12 months' rent that you paid previously. This applies if your landlord:

• Evicted you without proper notice or a court possession order
• Used force, threats, or changed the locks without your consent

RROs are awarded by the Residential Property Tribunal Wales. If the tribunal finds in your favour, your landlord may be ordered to repay up to a year’s worth of rent.

How to Apply for a Rent Repayment Order (RRO) in Wales

If you experienced an illegal eviction, you can apply for an RRO. The process is designed to be accessible, but may require supporting evidence such as proof of tenancy, communication records, and rent payments.

Key Steps to Apply

• Gather evidence: Keep tenancy agreements, payment records, emails/texts about your eviction, and any witness statements.
• Submit RRO application: Use the Form RRO1 (Application for a Rent Repayment Order) to apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
• Wait for hearing: The tribunal will consider your case and may hold a hearing. Both you and your landlord can present evidence.
• Receive a decision: If successful, the tribunal will state how much rent your landlord must repay and by when.

What Is Form RRO1?

Form name: Application for a Rent Repayment Order (Form RRO1)
When to use: If you have been illegally evicted and want to recover rent. For example, if your landlord changed your locks and failed to obtain a possession order, you could complete RRO1, attaching your evidence and submitting it to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
Where to get it: Download directly from the official Welsh Government RRO1 application page.

Which Tribunal Handles Illegal Eviction Compensation?

Applications for Rent Repayment Orders in Wales are handled by the Residential Property Tribunal Wales. This tribunal reviews cases based on the evidence provided and operates independently of landlords or letting agents.

What Law Protects Tenants Against Illegal Eviction in Wales?

The main legislation for renters in Wales is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. This law outlines your rights, including the legal eviction process and the penalties landlords face if they act unlawfully. Guidance for private tenants is also available via the Welsh Government's official renters’ rights page.¹

Action Steps if You’ve Been Illegally Evicted

• Contact your local council's tenancy relations service for support
• Gather all records: tenancy agreement, rent receipts, correspondence
• Complete and submit the RRO1 application
• Consider seeking advice from Shelter Cymru or Citizens Advice if you feel overwhelmed

Following these steps will help you through the official process and protect your interests.

FAQ: Illegal Eviction and Rent Repayment in Wales

1. What is an illegal eviction in Wales?
   An illegal eviction is when a landlord removes you from your home without following the correct legal process, such as not giving proper notice or failing to get a court order.
2. How much rent can I claim back after an illegal eviction?
   You can apply to reclaim up to 12 months’ rent through a Rent Repayment Order if the tribunal finds your landlord acted unlawfully.
3. How do I apply for a Rent Repayment Order?
   Download, complete, and submit Form RRO1 to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales, providing all relevant evidence of the illegal eviction.
4. Is there a time limit to apply for an RRO?
   Yes, you must usually apply within 12 months of the illegal eviction incident.
5. Will applying for an RRO affect my chances of renting elsewhere?
   No, applying for compensation or exercising your legal rights should not impact your ability to rent a new home, and it is unlawful for landlords to discriminate against tenants for doing so.

Conclusion: What Should Renters in Wales Remember?

• You can claim back up to a year's rent if you have been illegally evicted in Wales.
• Rent Repayment Orders are handled by the Residential Property Tribunal Wales using official forms and clear procedures.
• Promptly collecting evidence and seeking advice helps strengthen your case.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government – Tenant Rights Hub
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales
• Shelter Cymru – Get Advice
• Citizens Advice Cymru
• Your local council’s Tenancy Relations Service

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – full legislation text

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