After you move into a rented home in Wales, you may need to report a landlord who is unlicensed, unsafe, or breaking legal duties. This guide explains, in everyday language, how tenants can report concerns to Rent Smart Wales, what evidence to gather, which official forms or online reports to use, and what action the Welsh Government and the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) can take. It covers timelines, tenant protections against retaliation, and practical examples — such as reporting missing safety certificates or poor repair responses. If you feel unsure, the steps below show how to prepare a clear report, keep records, and escalate to the tribunal if needed.
What Rent Smart Wales can investigate
Rent Smart Wales is the Welsh Government regulator for the private rented sector; they investigate licence and training compliance, management standards and certain breaches of landlord duties.[1]
- Unlicensed landlords or agents failing to register or hold required licences.
- Serious repair or safety failures, such as lack of working heating or dangerous wiring.
- Failures to provide legally required documents like tenancy agreements, gas safety or EPC information.
- Complaints about contact, harassment or retaliatory behaviour by a landlord or agent.
Gather the evidence
Before you file a report, collect clear, dated evidence so the regulator can assess the issue promptly.
- Photographs or videos of disrepair, hazards or missing safety features.
- Copies of rent receipts, bank transfers or deposit protection records.
- Copies of messages, emails and written requests to the landlord with dates noted.
- A concise timeline listing dates you reported problems and any missed deadlines for repairs or replies.
How to submit a report
Use the Rent Smart Wales online reporting facility or the contact details on the Welsh Government site to start a complaint; include the property address, landlord/agent name if known, your contact details, a clear summary and the evidence you gathered.[1]
- Complete the online report form and describe the breach or concern clearly.
- Upload photographs, receipts and copies of messages where the online form permits attachments.
- Provide preferred contact details and note if you wish to remain anonymous (investigations sometimes need a contact point).
Relevant official forms and applications
Tenants may use a combination of Rent Smart Wales reports and, where appropriate, tribunal applications or court forms. Below are the main official routes and how tenants typically use them.
- Rent Smart Wales online report form (no form number) — used to report suspected unlicensed landlords or management failures; for example, if a landlord refuses to provide a licence number, submit the address and evidence via the online form so the regulator can check registration.
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) application pages — use these GOV.UK application procedures for claims such as rent repayment orders or disrepair remedies; for example, if Rent Smart Wales confirms a licence breach you may still apply to the tribunal for financial remedies or orders.[3]
- Evidence and record templates — not formal government forms, but keeping dated, labelled files of photos and correspondence speeds up regulator or tribunal processes.
What happens next
After you report, Rent Smart Wales may assess the information, request more evidence, inspect the property or refer cases for enforcement. Sanctions can include fines, compliance notices or banning orders; legal remedies via the tribunal or courts may also apply under existing housing law such as the Housing Act 1988 and related provisions.[2]
- Rent Smart Wales can issue sanctions aimed at improving management standards and protecting tenants.
- You can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for orders such as rent repayment or repairs if the regulator's outcome does not resolve your individual claim.[3]
FAQ
- Will Rent Smart Wales evict my landlord?
- No. Rent Smart Wales can investigate and impose sanctions but cannot evict; eviction or possession matters are handled by courts or the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
- How long does an investigation take?
- Times vary by case complexity; straightforward licence checks can be faster, while inspections and enforcement may take weeks. If there is an imminent safety risk, tell the regulator immediately.
- Can I report anonymously?
- You can request confidentiality or limited contact details, but investigations may need a named contact for follow-up information or witness evidence.
How-To
- Take dated photographs, videos and save copies of receipts and messages about the issue.
- Check whether the landlord or agent appears on the Rent Smart Wales register and note any licence number found.
- Complete the Rent Smart Wales online report form and attach your evidence where possible.
- Keep a copy of your submission, note the date, and log any further contact or landlord responses.
- If there is no resolution, consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for remedies such as repair orders or rent repayment.
- Seek local advice from official sources if you need help preparing an application or understanding your rights.
Key Takeaways
- Gather dated photos, messages and receipts before reporting.
- Use the Rent Smart Wales online report to flag licence and management issues.
- If necessary, escalate individual remedies through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Smart Wales - Welsh Government
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
- Housing Act 1988 - legislation.gov.uk
