How Renters Can Report Housing Disrepair in Wales

If you're renting a home in Wales and dealing with problems like damp, mould, broken heating, or other serious maintenance issues, it's important to understand your legal rights and how to report disrepair. Welsh law protects renters and sets out clear standards for landlords to keep your home safe and habitable.

Your Rights to Repairs and Housing Standards in Wales

Landlords in Wales are legally required to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, and ensure essential services (like water, heating, and electricity) are working. Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, these responsibilities apply to both assured shorthold tenancies and the new 'occupation contracts' introduced in December 2022.^[1]

• Addressing major hazards (e.g. damp, mould, electrical faults)
• Keeping heating, sanitation, and hot water working
• Meeting the fitness for human habitation standards

How to Report Disrepair to Your Landlord

If you notice something in your home that needs repair, take these steps:

• Contact your landlord or letting agent in writing (email is best for records). Clearly describe the problem and request repair.
• Keep copies of all communication, photos, and any responses.
• Allow a reasonable time (usually within 14 days for non-urgent issues, sooner for emergencies) for the landlord to respond.

What to Do if Your Landlord Does Not Carry Out Repairs

If your landlord ignores your request or does not fix the issue in a reasonable time, you can escalate your complaint:

Step 1: Contact Your Local Council

Your local council has an environmental health department responsible for enforcement. They can inspect the property and, if necessary, order your landlord to make repairs.

• Find your council's contact details using Find your local council.
• Ask for the housing or environmental health team.

Step 2: Submit an Official Complaint

Complete your council's housing disrepair reporting form (varies by council, check their website or ask the housing team). Include details, evidence, and all previous correspondence with your landlord.

Step 3: Apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales

If repairs are still not completed after council involvement, you can make a formal application to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales. This official tribunal deals with disputes about repairs, rent, and landlord/tenant rights.

• Form: Application to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales - Application by a contract-holder for an order (Form RHW21)
• Download Form RHW21 Application by a contract-holder for an order
• When to use: If your landlord has failed to comply with their repair duties, you can apply using this form for an order requiring repairs.
• How to submit: Complete the form and send it to the tribunal address (details on the form). Attach evidence and copies of prior complaints.

The tribunal can issue legally binding orders to your landlord to address the disrepair.

If conditions in your home are affecting your health and your landlord is unresponsive, involve the council or tribunal as soon as possible.

FAQ: Reporting Housing Disrepair in Wales

1. What if my landlord threatens eviction after I ask for repairs?
   It is illegal for your landlord to evict you or retaliate because you've asked for repairs. If you feel threatened, contact your local council or a tenants' advice service immediately.
2. How long should I wait for repairs after reporting them?
   Timescales depend on the severity—emergencies (e.g. no heating in winter) should be acted on within 24 hours, while non-urgent repairs typically within 14 days.
3. Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren’t done?
   No, you must continue paying rent. Withholding rent can put you at risk of eviction. Instead, follow the correct procedures through the council and tribunal.
4. What evidence should I collect for my repair complaint?
   Take clear photos, keep a diary of problems, save emails/texts, and gather witness statements if possible. This supports your case with the council or tribunal.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Wales must keep your home safe and repaired according to the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.
• Report repairs first in writing, then go to your council, and finally to the Residential Property Tribunal if needed.
• Use official forms like Form RHW21 and include as much evidence as possible.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government Housing Information
• Shelter Cymru – Advice on Repairs and Bad Conditions
• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales
• Find Your Local Council

1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Fitness for Human Habitation guidance (Welsh Government)
3. Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – Official Site