Community land trusts (CLTs) are local organisations that keep land and homes affordable for people who live in a place. As a tenant or renter in Wales you should know your basic rights, how repairs and rent changes work, and what to do if a dispute starts. This guide explains common tenancy types used by CLTs, how to report repairs, what notices and official forms might be used, and the public bodies you can contact for decisions or appeals in Wales. The language is plain and aimed at renters who need practical steps to protect their housing, keep records, and raise problems with a CLT landlord or manager.
How community land trusts work in Wales
CLTs are usually charitable or community organisations that own land and lease homes on long-term affordable tenancies. Tenancies can be social-style tenancies, assured shorthold arrangements, or bespoke affordable tenures. CLTs often prioritise local people and keep rents below market levels, but tenancy paperwork still sets out rights and duties for both tenant and landlord. Always read your written tenancy agreement and ask the CLT for clarification on who is responsible for repairs, garden upkeep, and shared spaces.
Tenancy rights and common issues for tenants in CLTs
Tenants renting from a CLT have the same core rights as other tenants in Wales: a right to a safe, well-maintained home, protection from unlawful eviction, and access to redress if the landlord does not meet obligations. The main national laws covering residential tenancies include the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977, which underlie many possession and rent matters in Wales.[2][3]
Repairs and maintenance
- Report repairs to the CLT in writing and keep a dated copy or photo as evidence.
- Keep a simple log of dates, times, and responses to show any delay or refusal to act.
- Contact your local council environmental health if urgent hazards are ignored.
Rent, charges and deposit issues
- Check how your rent was set and whether the CLT has a policy on increases in your tenancy agreement.
- Ask for written notice before any rent increase; challenge unclear clauses with the CLT in writing.
- If a deposit was taken, confirm it is in a government-approved scheme and get the certificate details.
Ending a tenancy and the eviction process
If a CLT seeks to end a tenancy they must follow legal notice procedures and, if necessary, go through the courts or tribunal. For most private possession claims the landlord starts court action using official court forms. For some disputes, applications or appeals may be made to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England and Wales.[1]
- Always ask for the notice in writing and check the reason and deadline.
- If you receive a possession claim, seek advice immediately and note the hearing date.
Official forms tenants may encounter
Below are the most common official forms or court documents tenants may see and how they are used. If you need help with any form, contact the tribunal or a local housing advice service for guidance.
Form N5 Claim form for possession of property
What it is: Form N5 is the court claim form a landlord can use to start proceedings for possession of a property. When it's used: A landlord may use this if they want a court order to regain possession. Practical example: If a CLT says they want possession because of repeated unpaid rent, the landlord may file an N5 to begin a possession claim. You should read the form, note the hearing date, and consider seeking advice. Official guidance and the form are on GOV.UK: Form N5 on GOV.UK.
Form N244 Application notice
What it is: Form N244 is used to apply to a court for an order or urgent case management directions during proceedings. When it's used: A tenant might use an N244 if they need to ask the court for more time to respond or to request a case review. Practical example: If you receive a possession claim and need time to gather evidence, an adviser can help you file an N244 to ask the court for an extension. Official guidance and the form are on GOV.UK: Form N244 on GOV.UK.
First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) applications
What it is: Certain landlord-tenant disputes, including some rent and permission matters, can be decided by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). When it's used: Tenants use the tribunal to seek remedies such as rent determinations, resolution of disputed terms, or other property decisions. Practical example: If a CLT refuses a reasonable improvement or imposes an unexpected charge, you may be able to apply to the tribunal for a decision. See official information and how to apply: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) on GOV.UK.
FAQ
- Can a community land trust evict me more easily than a private landlord?
- No. CLTs must follow the same legal process as other landlords when seeking possession and cannot evict without a court order or tribunal decision.[1]
- Who is responsible for repairs in a CLT property?
- Your tenancy agreement should state whether the CLT or the tenant is responsible for specific repairs; major structural and safety repairs are usually the landlord's responsibility.
- What if my CLT increases my rent?
- Check your tenancy agreement for rent review clauses and ask the CLT for a written explanation; if you cannot agree, note the process and consider seeking independent advice or tribunal review.
How-To
- Report the repair to the CLT in writing, include photos, and request a date for action.
- Keep a dated log of all communications and copies of messages and photos for evidence.
- If the CLT does not respond, send a formal written complaint and state you may contact the council or tribunal.
- If unresolved, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or seek an environmental health inspection for urgent hazards.
Help and Support / Resources
- Renting in the private sector Welsh Government
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) GOV.UK
- Housing Act 1988 legislation.gov.uk
