How to Change Names on a Tenancy Agreement in Wales

If you rent a home in Wales, there may come a time when you need to change the names on your tenancy agreement. Changes can happen for many reasons—such as a new flatmate moving in, a relationship breakdown, or an existing tenant wanting to leave. Understanding your rights and the correct process is important to ensure your tenancy remains valid and your housing situation is secure.

Understanding Tenancy Types in Wales

Most renters in Wales now have an "occupation contract" following the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which replaced most older forms of tenancy from December 2022 onwards. There are two main types:

• Secure contract: usually for social housing tenants
• Standard contract: typically used in the private rented sector

Changing names on your contract depends on your existing agreement and whether you share the home with others.

Reasons for Changing Names on a Tenancy

Common scenarios include:

• One tenant moving out and another moving in (e.g., joint agreements)
• A relationship breakdown or new partnership
• Adding or removing someone’s name to clarify who is legally responsible

How to Change a Name on Your Tenancy Agreement in Wales

While you cannot usually change a tenancy agreement unilaterally, there are steps and official forms you can use to request changes.

1. Speak to Your Landlord or Letting Agent

Your landlord or agent holds the original contract. Changing a name will usually require their involvement and agreement. It’s best to make the request in writing, explaining why you want to change a name.

2. Use an Official Variation Agreement (Occupation Contract Variation)

To formally update an occupation contract, you and your landlord both need to agree to a 'variation'. This will either amend the original contract or produce a new one signed by all parties.

• Occupation Contract Variation (No official form number): Used when all parties agree to change an occupation contract (for example, replacing a departing joint tenant with a new one).
  Practical example: A couple separates, and one moves out. The remaining tenant and landlord agree to add a new joint tenant, so a varied contract is drawn up, signed by the landlord and all current and new tenants.
  See detailed guidance and example templates on the Welsh Government occupation contracts page.

If your landlord refuses without good reason, contact your local council’s housing advice service for help.

3. Transfer of Occupation Contracts by Succession or Assignment

Sometimes, the law allows for transfer (assignment) of an occupation contract without the landlord’s agreement, such as after a death (succession) or in certain family law situations (often after a court order). For example:

• Succession: If a contract-holder dies, a spouse or civil partner may be entitled to take on the contract.
  More about succession rights: Welsh Government guidance on succession.
• Assignment by court order: If a court orders the transfer of the contract (often following divorce or separation), you may need to provide official documentation—such as a copy of the court order and a written request—to the landlord.

The Rental Property Tribunal Wales can help resolve disputes in some circumstances (see below).

Official Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes in Wales

The Residential Property Tribunal Wales handles disputes involving tenancy (occupation contract) matters, including contract changes and certain applications if your landlord will not agree to vary the agreement.

Key Legislation for Tenancy Changes in Wales

These rights and processes are defined in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016¹. This law sets out succession rights, occupation contract variation, and joint contract-holder rules for tenants and landlords in Wales.

Steps to Take if You Want to Change a Name on Your Occupation Contract

• Check your occupation contract for details about joint tenants and variation procedures
• Speak with your landlord or letting agent and explain your request in writing
• If everyone agrees, sign a contract variation or new contract
• If there is a dispute or landlord refuses, seek advice from your local council or an advice service (see below)
• For succession or court-ordered transfers, provide all legal documents as required

FAQ: Changing Names on a Tenancy in Wales

1. Can I remove my name from a joint occupation contract if I am moving out?
   Generally, both you and your landlord must agree. A contract variation (updated agreement) is usually needed. It’s important not to walk away without sorting the legal paperwork, as you could remain liable for rent.
2. Do I need my landlord’s permission to add someone to my tenancy?
   Yes, occupation contracts require the landlord’s consent to add a new joint contract-holder. Both sides should sign a new or varied contract.
3. What if my landlord refuses my reasonable request to vary the contract?
   You can seek advice from your local council or contact the Residential Property Tribunal Wales to resolve the issue.
4. Does changing names reset my tenancy rights or deposit protection?
   Not automatically, but the tenancy deposit protection scheme may need to be notified of any change in contract-holders. Check your deposit protection paperwork and contact the provider.
5. What official documents should I keep after changing names?
   Keep signed copies of the updated contract, any correspondence, and—if applicable—court orders or letters from the landlord regarding the changes.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Changing names on a tenancy in Wales usually requires landlord agreement and a written variation or a new occupation contract.
• Always keep copies of any updated agreements and notify the deposit protection scheme if needed.
• If there are disputes or the process is unclear, seek official advice or consider applying to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government: Renting Homes Guidance
• Shelter Cymru – Advice and information on housing issues
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Independent tribunal for tenancy and housing contract disputes
• Your local council’s housing advice service

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 (legislation.gov.uk)

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