Ending Your Tenancy in Wales: A Renter’s Guide

Ending your tenancy in Wales requires following specific steps to protect your rights and ensure a smooth transition. As a renter, understanding the legal process, the right notice periods, and your responsibilities helps you avoid unnecessary disputes and financial penalties. This guide covers everything you need to know about ending a tenancy in Wales under current law, using only official government resources.

Understanding Your Tenancy Type in Wales

Most renters in Wales are now ‘contract-holders’ under an occupation contract. The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 came into full force in December 2022, bringing significant changes for renters and landlords. Knowing whether you have a standard occupation contract or another type, like a secure contract, will affect how your tenancy can be ended¹.

Notice Periods: What Renters Must Give

If you wish to move out, you usually need to give your landlord the correct written notice. For most standard occupation contracts:

• You must give at least 4 weeks' written notice, unless your contract says otherwise.
• Check your occupation contract for any longer notice periods or break clauses.
• Leave the property on the last day of your notice period, with no rent owing and the condition in line with your contract.

If you are unsure about your contract type or rights, contact Shelter Cymru or your local council’s housing advice team.

How to Provide Your Notice Properly

Notice must be served in writing. There is no official government form for giving notice as a contract-holder, but your letter or email should include:

• Your name and address
• The date you are sending notice
• The date you intend to leave
• A clear statement that you are ending the contract

Send your notice according to the contact method stated in your contract—usually by email or post. Keep a copy for your records.

What If Your Landlord Ends the Contract?

Landlords must provide written notice using an official form if they wish to end a contract. For most standard contracts (periodic or fixed-term):

• Landlords must give at least 6 months’ notice ("Section 173 notice").
• This must be provided using the official RHW17: Notice by Landlord to End a Standard Contract form

If you receive a notice, check carefully that the correct form and notice period have been used. You can challenge an invalid notice.

Relevant Official Forms for Ending a Tenancy in Wales

• RHW17: Notice by Landlord to End a Standard Contract
  Official RHW17 Form
  When landlords wish to end a periodic standard contract in Wales, they must serve this form with at least 6 months' notice (except in cases of breach). Example: Your landlord completes RHW17 and posts it to you with the correct notice period.
• RHW24: Notice by Landlord to End a Fixed Term Standard Contract
  Official RHW24 Form
  This form is for landlords ending a fixed-term contract in specific situations, such as breach of contract or a break clause being used.

While tenants do not have a government-issued form, using a simple, clear notice letter will protect you. You can view templates from official advice agencies or your local council.

Your Rights and What to Watch For

• Landlords cannot evict you without following the correct notice and court procedures.
• Deposits must be returned unless there are deductions for damage or unpaid rent.
• If you disagree with your landlord, you may be able to apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales for a ruling.
• If your landlord tries to evict you without proper notice, contact Shelter Cymru or your local authority for help.

Moving Out: Final Steps for Welsh Renters

• Leave the property in good condition, following your occupation contract terms
• Take photos of the property’s condition before handing back keys
• Give your landlord a forwarding address for your deposit return
• Remember to cancel utilities and redirect post

Being methodical prevents issues after you leave. Reach out for help if disputes arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice do I need to give to end my tenancy in Wales?
   For most standard occupation contracts, contract-holders must give at least 4 weeks’ written notice, unless your contract requires a longer period.
2. What forms does my landlord need to use if ending the tenancy?
   Your landlord must use the RHW17 (for periodic) or RHW24 (for fixed-term contracts) official notice forms.
3. Can my landlord evict me immediately?
   No, landlords must follow strict notice periods and, if necessary, apply to court for an eviction order.
4. What if I leave without giving proper notice?
   You may still be liable for rent for the required notice period unless the landlord agrees to earlier termination.
5. Who can help if I am unsure or facing eviction in Wales?
   Shelter Cymru, Citizens Advice, and your local authority provide free help and legal advice.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Check your occupation contract and give written notice as required (usually 4 weeks)
• Landlords must use official forms and follow correct notice periods
• Seek advice from official sources if you are uncertain about the procedure or face eviction

Staying informed and organised ensures your move-out is stress-free and your rights are protected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Shelter Cymru – Free support and advice for renters in Wales
• Citizens Advice Wales – Housing rights and legal assistance
• Welsh Government Housing – Official government housing policies
• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – Tribunal for tenancy and housing disputes

1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, official legislation, applies across Wales.
2. Types of tenancy and occupation contracts in Wales, Welsh Government.
3. RHW17: Notice by Landlord to End a Standard Contract, Welsh Government.
4. RHW24: Notice by Landlord to End a Fixed Term Standard Contract, Welsh Government.
5. Residential Property Tribunal for Wales, for housing and tenancy disputes.