Costs and Fees for Rent Repayment Order Applications in Wales

Many renters in Wales wonder what expenses are involved if they decide to apply for a Rent Repayment Order (RRO). RROs can help tenants claim back rent paid when a landlord has broken certain housing laws, such as renting out an unlicensed house in multiple occupation (HMO). Understanding the costs, forms, and process will help you make informed decisions about seeking compensation in Wales.

Understanding Rent Repayment Orders in Wales

A Rent Repayment Order (RRO) allows tenants to claim back rent if their landlord has committed specific offences, like operating an unlicensed HMO or illegal eviction. In Wales, renters apply through the Residential Property Tribunal Wales, which handles these cases. The process and potential costs are explained below.

Application Fees for Rent Repayment Orders in Wales

There is usually a fee to apply for an RRO in Wales. As of 2024, the typical application fee with the Residential Property Tribunal Wales is £155. This fee covers processing your case, and there may be extra hearing fees if your case goes to a formal hearing (currently an additional £135). Always check the tribunal's official fees guidance for the latest information.

• Application fee (required when submitting your RRO request): £155
• Hearing fee (if the case proceeds to a hearing): £135

Some renters may be eligible for fee reductions or exemptions, such as those on low incomes or certain benefits. Find more detail and how to apply for help with fees in the "Help with Fees" guidance from the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Official Forms: What You Need to Apply

• Application for a Rent Repayment Order (Form RRO Wales)
  This is the main form you must complete to request an RRO.
  When to use: If your landlord has committed certain offences (like not having the correct HMO licence) and you wish to claim back rent.
  Practical example: If you've discovered your rental was unlicensed for several months, you can use Form RRO Wales to apply for compensation.
  Official link: Download Rent Repayment Order Form (Wales)

You will need to provide information about your tenancy, the offence, and evidence supporting your case (e.g., tenancy agreement, correspondence, or council letters).

How to Submit Your Application

• Complete the Rent Repayment Order application form (RRO Wales)
• Gather supporting documents
• Pay the application fee (see "Application Fees" above)
• Send your completed form and documents to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales

What Other Costs Might Arise?

Besides application and hearing fees, you may face minor expenses such as copying documents or mailing forms. If you choose to get legal advice or representation, you would need to pay for it yourself—though legal representation is not required in most cases.

If your application is successful, the tribunal generally expects each side to pay their own costs, but there are rare situations where costs can be awarded (for example, if a party acts unreasonably). See details in the tribunal guidance on costs.

Check the official tribunal fee page to confirm the current costs and find out if you qualify for any reductions based on your circumstances.

Relevant Legislation and Jurisdiction

• Applications for RROs in Wales are made under the Housing Act 2004 (Part 2, Chapter 4)¹.
• The responsible tribunal is the Residential Property Tribunal Wales².

This framework ensures that both landlords and renters are treated fairly and according to Welsh law.

FAQs about Rent Repayment Order Costs and Application in Wales

1. Is there always a fee to apply for a Rent Repayment Order in Wales?
   No, some tenants may qualify for fee reductions or exemptions. Most applications require a fee (currently £155), but help is available if you receive certain benefits or have a low income.
2. Where can I download the official RRO application form for Wales?
   You can find the required form and guidance on the Residential Property Tribunal Wales Application Forms page.
3. Can I recover my application fee if I win my RRO case?
   Generally, both parties pay their own costs. Rarely, the tribunal may order costs if one party has acted unreasonably.
4. Do I need a lawyer to apply for a Rent Repayment Order?
   No, you do not need a lawyer to apply. The tribunal process is designed to be accessible for renters acting without legal representation.
5. Which legislation governs Rent Repayment Orders in Wales?
   RROs in Wales are covered under the Housing Act 2004.

Key Takeaways for Renters on RRO Application Costs in Wales

• There is an application fee (usually £155), and a possible hearing fee, but support is available for those who qualify.
• Use the official RRO application form from the Residential Property Tribunal Wales and include all evidence with your application.
• You don’t have to hire a lawyer, and tribunals are set up for people representing themselves.

Understanding the costs and process helps you budget and plan for an RRO application with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Official tribunal for RROs and applications 
• Gov.uk guide to private renting – UK government overview of your rights
• Shelter Cymru: Rent Repayment Orders – Information and support for tenants
• Rent Smart Wales – Licensing and renting information for landlords and tenants

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1. Housing Act 2004: Rent Repayment Orders (Part 2, Chapter 4)
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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