If you are renting from a council or housing association in Wales, you may be offered an introductory contract as a probationary period before a full secure tenancy. These short-term agreements usually last around twelve months and give social landlords a simplified route to possession if problems arise. As a tenant you still have rights: the landlord must follow legal notice procedures, report and complete repairs, and treat you fairly during the introductory period. This page explains what introductory contracts mean for renters in Wales, how to respond to notices, which official forms you might see, and when to seek help from the First-tier Tribunal or Welsh housing services. Keep clear records and act quickly if you get a notice.
What is an introductory contract in Welsh social housing?
An introductory contract (sometimes called an introductory tenancy) is a fixed probationary arrangement most commonly used by councils and housing associations in Wales. It gives landlords and the tenant a trial period, usually up to twelve months, during which certain protections of a full secure tenancy do not apply in the same way. During this time a landlord can start possession proceedings more quickly for specified breaches of the tenancy.
How long does the introductory period last and what happens afterwards?
In most cases the introductory period runs for about twelve months. If you keep to the tenancy terms and there are no serious problems, the landlord will normally convert the introductory contract into a secure or assured tenancy at the end of the period. If the landlord serves a possession notice during the introductory period and pursues a claim, you have the right to respond and to attend any hearing.
Your key rights during an introductory contract
- You must be given a written notice if the landlord intends to seek possession, and the landlord must follow legal notice rules.
- You are entitled to essential repairs and the property must meet basic standards of habitability.
- You usually have limited time to respond to a notice, so check any deadline on the document and act promptly.
- You can contact local housing advice services for free support and representation options.
How landlords start possession proceedings
For introductory contracts, social landlords commonly use statutory notices and then apply to the county court or seek an order through the appropriate tribunal process where applicable. The specific paperwork and process will depend on the reason for possession (for example, rent arrears, anti-social behaviour or breach of other tenancy obligations).
Official forms tenants may see
- Housing possession claim form (N5) — used by landlords when they start a court possession claim. Example: if your landlord serves a notice for rent arrears and then issues a court claim, the N5 begins that process. See the official GOV.UK guidance for how possession claims work and what to expect when you receive this form: N5 and housing possession claim guidance.
- Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — tenants or landlords may need to apply to the tribunal for specific disputes or appeals. Example: you can apply to the tribunal if you dispute a decision that affects your tenancy rights. Official guidance on how to apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) is available on GOV.UK: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) information.
Acting if you receive a notice
When you receive a written notice or claim form: read it carefully, check any deadlines, keep copies, and gather evidence such as rent payment receipts, repair requests, and messages. Consider contacting your landlord to seek clarification or an informal resolution. If you cannot resolve the issue, get independent advice from a local housing advice service or apply to the First-tier Tribunal as appropriate.[2]
Challenging a notice and common defences
- Show evidence of payment if the landlord claims rent arrears and you have receipts or bank records.
- Use repair records and reports to challenge a possession claim based on alleged neglect of tenancy obligations.
- Raise procedural errors if the landlord did not follow the correct notice procedure set out in legislation.
FAQ
- What happens if my introductory contract is breached?
- If the landlord alleges a breach, they can issue a notice and may apply for possession; you should respond in writing, collect evidence, and seek advice. You may be able to challenge the notice at a hearing.
- Can I be evicted immediately during the introductory period?
- No. Landlords must follow legal notice procedures and obtain a possession order from the court or tribunal before you can be lawfully evicted.
- How do I convert to a secure tenancy?
- If you meet the tenancy conditions throughout the introductory period, the landlord normally confirms conversion to a secure or assured tenancy at the end of the trial period.
How-To
- Read any written notice or form immediately and note the deadline shown.
- Gather evidence: rent receipts, messages, repair requests, photographs and any witness details.
- Contact your landlord to try to resolve the issue and ask for written confirmation of any agreement.
- If you cannot resolve it, apply to or seek advice about the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or local court options.
- Attend any hearing and bring copies of all documents and a clear timeline of events.
Key Takeaways
- Introductory contracts are usually short, often around twelve months.
- If you receive a notice act quickly, keep copies and check deadlines.
- Keep clear records of payments, repairs and correspondence to support your case.
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) information
- Housing possession and court claim guidance
- Rent Smart Wales - landlord licensing and tenant information
