Essential Rights and Responsibilities for First-Time Renters in Wales

Stepping into your first rental in Wales is exciting—but it also comes with new rights and responsibilities. Whether you’re renting a flat in Cardiff or a house in Swansea, understanding your position as a tenant will help you avoid common pitfalls and deal with issues like rent increases, repairs, or the end of a tenancy with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Your Tenancy: The Basics

Since 1 December 2022, almost all new tenancies in Wales are known as occupation contracts under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.^[1] This replaced previous types of tenancy agreements and introduced new legal rights for renters.

• Written contract: Your landlord must provide you with a written statement of your occupation contract within 14 days of moving in.
• Security of tenure: Most renters now have greater protection against eviction, with new notice periods and rules.
• Fitness for human habitation: Landlords must ensure your home is safe, with working smoke alarms, electrical checks, and no serious hazards.

Key Renter Responsibilities

• Pay your rent on time and in full.
• Take care of the property and report repairs quickly.
• Respect neighbours and follow any reasonable rules in your contract.

If you break these rules or fall behind on rent, your landlord may start legal processes to end your contract—but they must follow proper procedure.

Dealing With Rent Increases

Your landlord can only increase your rent at set times and must give you proper notice:

• Minimum six months’ notice for standard occupation contracts.
• Rent can generally be increased once per year unless your contract allows more frequent increases.

The landlord must serve you with a RHW12: Notice of Rent Increase. You can read more and access the official form at the Welsh Government’s model forms page.^[2]

• Example: If you get an RHW12 notice, and you think the new rent is too high, you can challenge it by applying to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales. They will decide if the increase is fair.

Ending a Tenancy: What Notice Am I Entitled To?

Your landlord must provide written notice before asking you to leave—usually at least six months for standard contracts, unless you have broken significant terms (like serious rent arrears or anti-social behaviour). Any notice should be served properly, using the correct form—such as the RHW16: Notice to end a periodic standard contract (available here).

• Keep all communications in writing.
• If you get a notice, don’t panic—seek support and get advice before moving out.

What If There Are Problems With Repairs?

Landlords must keep your property safe and fit to live in. If repairs are not done, put your request in writing and allow a reasonable time to fix the problem. For serious issues, you can contact your local council’s Environmental Health team or escalate to the Residential Property Tribunal.

Official Forms Every Renter Should Know

• RHW2: Information for contract-holders
  Used by the landlord to provide contract details at the start of your occupation. Always check this closely for your rights and obligations. Access RHW2 form.
• RHW12: Notice of Rent Increase
  Given to you by your landlord if they plan to raise the rent. If you disagree, you have the right to apply to the tribunal within one month. See RHW12 form.
• RHW16: Landlord’s Notice to end a periodic standard contract
  Served when your landlord wants to end your contract. This must follow strict rules about notice length and reasons. Download RHW16.

The Welsh Government’s official forms library has up-to-date versions and instructions.

What Tribunal Handles Tenancy Issues in Wales?

Rent and tenancy disputes in Wales are handled by the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales. This body deals with rent increases, repairs, deposit disputes, and eviction challenges. Applications can usually be made online or by post, with clear step-by-step instructions available on their website.

Your Rights Under Welsh Tenancy Law

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 sets out what landlords and contract-holders (tenants) must do. Key protections include receiving a written statement of your occupation contract, having your deposit protected, and living in a safe and healthy home.^[1]

• Discrimination is not allowed—landlords cannot refuse to let to you for reasons like race, religion, gender, or disability.
• You have a right to quiet enjoyment, meaning your landlord cannot enter your home without proper notice except in emergencies.

FAQ: First-Time Renting in Wales

1. Can my landlord increase the rent whenever they want?
   Your landlord must give at least six months’ notice of any increase using the RHW12 form, and can only do so once every 12 months unless agreed otherwise.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t make necessary repairs?
   Write a formal request to your landlord and keep records. If the problem continues, contact your local council’s Environmental Health team for help.
3. How much notice should I get before eviction?
   Under most standard contracts, landlords must give at least six months’ notice, using the official RHW16 form unless you’ve breached the contract (such as for serious rent arrears).
4. Where is my deposit protected?
   By law, your landlord must place your deposit in a government-approved scheme and provide you with the details within 30 days.
5. Where can I challenge an unfair rent increase?
   You can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales if you think a proposed rent is too high.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Renting Homes Wales Guidance – Plain English guides on all aspects of the Renting Homes Act.
• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – For rent, eviction, and contract disputes.
• Shelter Cymru – Free housing advice and support for renters across Wales.
• Contact your local council housing team – Search for your local authority’s website for help with repairs and safety.

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1. [1] Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – Legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] Welsh Government – Renting Homes Official Forms

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