Enforcing a Tribunal Decision as a Renter in Wales

If the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales has ruled in your favour regarding a dispute with your landlord—such as repairs, rent, or eviction—it can be reassuring. However, sometimes landlords do not comply with a tribunal decision voluntarily. This guide explains what you can do to enforce a tribunal ruling in Wales, ensuring your rights as a renter are upheld according to the laws of Wales.

Understanding the Tribunal and Its Rulings in Wales

In Wales, the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales (RPTW) handles housing disputes between renters and landlords, such as rent increases, deposit disputes, repairs, and eviction issues. The Tribunal’s decisions are legally binding, but enforcement isn’t automatic if a landlord does not comply.

What Happens When a Tribunal Ruling Is Not Followed?

Once a decision is issued, both parties are expected to comply. If your landlord fails to follow the Tribunal's order—for example, by not carrying out repairs or refusing to return a deposit—you will need to apply for enforcement through the County Court.

The Enforcement Process: Step-by-Step

Here is a step-by-step outline of how to enforce a Tribunal order as a renter in Wales:

• Obtain a formal copy of the Tribunal’s decision (the ‘order’ document).
• Check if the landlord is ignoring the order after the given deadline.
• Apply to the County Court to request enforcement.

The County Court has the legal power to ensure the order is obeyed, which could include ordering bailiffs, seizing funds, or taking further action against the landlord.

Which Forms to Use and How to Complete Them

To enforce a money order (such as unpaid compensation, deposit returns, or rent repayment), renters generally use:

• N322A – Request for enforcement of a tribunal decision by the County Court
  Download and learn more about Form N322A from the official UK government website.
  • When to use it: If the Tribunal has made a decision for your landlord to pay you an amount of money and they have not done so within the specified period.
  • How to use it: Complete the form, attach a copy of the Tribunal’s decision, and submit to your nearest County Court hearing centre.
  • Example: You won a £500 Rent Repayment Order. If the landlord doesn’t pay, use N322A to ask the County Court to enforce the payment.

For orders not involving money (like repairs), you may need to seek an order for specific performance or further advice from a solicitor or advice service.

Action Steps for Renters

• Gather all relevant Tribunal documents and evidence of non-compliance.
• Identify the County Court dealing with your area (use the Find a court or tribunal service).
• Complete Form N322A and pay the relevant fee (full or reduced fee may be available if you have a low income; see help with court fees).
• Submit documents in person or by post, following provided instructions.
• Await correspondence from the County Court about next steps and enforcement.

Relevant Housing Legislation in Wales

Renters in Wales are mainly protected under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. This law sets out your rights, responsibilities, and the powers of housing tribunals for all residential lettings in Wales.¹

What If the Decision Isn’t About Money?

Enforcement for non-monetary orders (like repairs or possession) can be more complex. You may need to apply for a County Court order forcing compliance, or, in certain circumstances, return to the Tribunal for further directions. Always keep detailed records and correspondence to strengthen your case.

Key Time Limits

• Check the Tribunal order for any timeframe the landlord is given to comply.
• Act promptly if there is no compliance after the deadline. Delays can complicate enforcement.

Act efficiently and do not let the matter linger.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tribunal Enforcement for Renters in Wales

1. What should I do if my landlord ignores a Tribunal ruling?
   If your landlord refuses to comply, gather your Tribunal documents and apply to the County Court for enforcement—typically using Form N322A for money orders.
2. Is there a cost to enforce a Tribunal decision?
   Yes, there’s usually a fee to apply for enforcement, but you may be eligible for help with court fees if you have a low income.
3. Can I get support completing the forms?
   Many free services—including local councils, Shelter Cymru, and Citizens Advice—can offer guidance.
4. What kind of rulings can be enforced through the County Court?
   You can enforce both money orders (e.g., rent repayment, deposit return) and orders for repairs, but the process for non-monetary orders may differ.
5. Who do I contact if I’m unsure which court to use?
   Use the Find a court or tribunal service tool or ask your local authority for advice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – Official site
• Shelter Cymru – Free housing advice for renters
• Citizens Advice Wales – Local support and legal guidance
• Gov.uk – Government information for private renters
• Help with Court Fees – Financial support for court costs

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Residential Property Tribunal for Wales
3. Form N322A – Application to Enforce a Money Judgment (GOV.UK)
4. Find a court or tribunal (GOV.UK)

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