If you are a tenant or renter in Wales facing rent arrears, this guide explains how council-led mediation can help avoid eviction and homelessness. It covers when mediation is offered, the practical steps a tenant should take, the official forms often used in possession proceedings, and where to find legal and housing-advice support. The language is plain and aimed at people who are not legal experts, so you can understand what councils will ask for, what rights you should expect, and how to prepare evidence to support a repayment plan or a formal mediation meeting.
What council mediation aims to do
Council mediation brings tenants and landlords (or their agents) together to agree a realistic repayment plan or other housing solution before court action begins. Mediation is typically voluntary but can be encouraged or arranged by a local housing options team if you are at risk of losing your home. Mediation does not replace legal processes, but a successful mediation can prevent possession proceedings and help secure practical arrangements such as staggered payments or signposting to welfare benefits and debt advice.[4]
When councils commonly offer mediation
- If you have received a notice or a warning that eviction may follow and you are at risk of homelessness.
- If you have persistent rent arrears and the council assesses that a repayment plan could prevent court action.
- If you or your landlord request a multi-party meeting to agree a way forward without going to court.
- If mediation is part of a pre-action process encouraged before any formal possession claim.
Official forms and where to get them
- Claim form N1 — used to start many possession or debt claims in the county court; councils or landlords use this to open possession proceedings when mediation has failed. See the official form and guidance: Claim form N1. [1]
- Application notice N244 — used where a party applies to the court for an order or directions during a running case (for example, to vary a timetable). The form and guidance are on GOV.UK. [2]
- Pre-action protocol documents — councils and many landlords should follow pre-action steps before issuing a possession claim for rent arrears; these set out required communications and options to resolve disputes. The government publishes the relevant pre-action guidance. [3]
Practical example: if you miss two months' rent and the landlord plans to start possession proceedings, contact your council housing options right away. Ask for mediation and propose a realistic repayment plan. If the landlord files a claim using Form N1, bring copies of your repayment offers and income evidence to any meeting or court hearing.
How mediation meetings usually work
Mediation meetings are typically chaired by an independent mediator or a housing officer. The mediator will outline the meeting rules, allow each side to explain their position, and help propose options such as repayment schedules, applications for welfare support, or temporary tenancy changes. Meetings aim to reach a written agreement that both parties sign; this agreement can be used as evidence that reasonable attempts were made to resolve the dispute if proceedings continue.
Practical steps to prepare for mediation
- Gather evidence of your income, benefits, rent statements, and any correspondence with your landlord or agent.
- Work out a realistic budget and a repayment figure you can meet each week or month.
- Contact your council housing options team as soon as arrears arise and ask about mediation services.
- Bring any official forms or notices you have received to the meeting, such as letters about arrears, and make notes of dates.
FAQ
- Can a council force my landlord to mediate?
- No. Councils can encourage or arrange mediation and may make it a recommended part of a pre-action process, but mediation is usually voluntary and depends on both landlord and tenant agreeing to participate.
- Will mediation stop a possession claim already issued?
- Mediation can pause or resolve matters if the court is told of an agreed plan, but it does not automatically stop a claim; if a claim is already issued, seek immediate advice and show any written agreement to the court.
- What if mediation fails?
- If mediation does not reach agreement, the landlord may continue with possession proceedings. Keep attending council appointments and collect evidence of your attempts to resolve the debt, which can be important in court.
How-To
- Contact your local council housing options team and explain your situation; request mediation and ask what documents are needed.
- Gather rent statements, proof of income, benefit letters and any messages with your landlord to take to the mediation meeting.
- Propose a realistic repayment plan that shows how you can reduce arrears while covering essential costs.
- Attend the mediation meeting, follow the mediator's process, and if an agreement is reached, get it in writing and keep a copy.
Key Takeaways
- Contact your council early — prompt contact increases options to resolve arrears.
- Bring clear evidence of income and payments to any mediation or meeting.
- Agreed repayment plans should be realistic and in writing to help prevent eviction.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Welsh Government housing and homelessness guidance
- Rent Smart Wales — regulation and landlord/agent information
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — tribunal information
