What housing help is available
Young people aged 16 and 17 in Wales may urgently need clear, practical guidance on their rights as tenants or renters when housing is at risk. Local councils have duties to assess homelessness and to consider suitable temporary accommodation, support and longer-term options. This section explains what to expect from a council assessment, how decisions are made, what documentation helps your case, and the routes to challenge decisions. It is written for non-legal readers and focuses on the practical steps a young person can take to secure safe accommodation and preserve their rights while a case is considered.
- Contact your local council housing options team as soon as you face homelessness.[4]
- Make a homelessness application and ask for a written decision if the council refuses.[4]
- Ask for temporary accommodation within statutory timeframes so you are not left without a roof.
- Collect evidence such as your tenancy agreement, ID, photos and messages from the landlord.
- Keep records of all payments and try to pay rent where safe to do so to avoid arrears.
Who decides and where to appeal
Local authorities in Wales consider homelessness applications under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 and wider landlord and tenant law alongside England and Wales statutes such as the Housing Act 1988[1] and the Rent Act 1977[2].
If you disagree with a council decision you can request a review and then appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). The official tribunal page and application guidance is here: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).[5]
Forms you may be asked to complete
Local homelessness application form — name and reference vary by council. Use this when you need the council to assess whether you are homeless and owed accommodation; for example, if you are asked to leave your family home but have no alternative. See your housing options team for the correct form.[4]
Housing Benefit claim form — councils use their own claim forms for housing benefit (or you claim via Universal Credit). Example: a 17-year-old in council temporary accommodation may need to submit a housing benefit claim to help with rent costs; contact your council to request the form.[4]
First-tier Tribunal application form (Property Chamber) — used to appeal certain housing decisions and rent disputes; follow the tribunal guidance when seeking a hearing.[5]
FAQ
- Can a 16 or 17 year old in Wales be treated as homeless?
- Yes. Local councils must assess homelessness applications from 16 67 year olds and consider whether they are vulnerable and owed accommodation under Welsh homelessness law.
- Will my parents always be contacted?
- Local authorities will consider safeguarding and may contact parents if appropriate, but they should also respect confidentiality and child protection duties.
- Can I be evicted from private rented housing at 16 or 17?
- Eviction still follows the law; landlords must use correct notice and court processes. Seek advice and keep records of all notices and communications.
How-To
- Contact your local council housing options team immediately and explain your situation.
- Complete the homelessness application and provide ID and proof of your current housing circumstances.
- Gather evidence: tenancy agreement, messages, photos and receipts, and give copies to the council.
- Ask for written decisions and note any deadlines for reviews or appeals.
- If you disagree, request an internal review and prepare to apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) following their guidance.[5]
Key Takeaways
- Contact your council housing options team as soon as you face homelessness.
- Complete and keep copies of any homelessness application and decision letters.
- Keep clear evidence and payment records to support your case.
Help and Support / Resources
- GOV.WALES - Homelessness and crisis accommodation in Wales
- GOV.UK - Find your local council
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
