Landlord Legal Breaches in Wales: What Renters Need to Know

When renting a home in Wales, knowing your rights is crucial—especially if you suspect your landlord has acted unlawfully. Welsh housing law has changed over recent years, offering stronger protections for renters. But what can you do if your landlord breaks the law, and what consequences might they face? This guide explains your options, the key processes, and where to turn for help.

Your Rights as a Renter in Wales

Since December 2022, renting in Wales is governed by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. Under this law, landlords and their agents must follow strict rules regarding contracts (now known as occupation contracts), repairs, notice periods, and more.

Examples of Landlord Law-Breaking in Wales

• Not providing a written occupation contract or correct information
• Failing to carry out necessary repairs or ensure the property is safe
• Attempting unlawful eviction or harassment
• Illegally increasing rent without proper notice
• Not protecting your deposit in an approved scheme
• Not being registered or licensed under Rent Smart Wales

If you believe your landlord has broken Welsh housing law, you have clear formal routes for raising a complaint or seeking protection.

What Are the Consequences for Landlords?

When a landlord is found to have breached their legal obligations under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 or related legislation, they could:

• Be ordered to fix the issue (such as carrying out urgent repairs)
• Face fines and, in some cases, criminal prosecution
• Lose their Rent Smart Wales licence—preventing them from legally renting homes
• Owe compensation (damages) to affected tenants
• Be prevented from evicting you using "no-fault" (section 173) notices

How to Take Action if Your Landlord Breaks the Law

If you face serious issues such as harassment, illegal eviction, overdue repairs, or non-compliance with Welsh regulations, you should:

• Raise the issue with your landlord in writing, keeping copies of all correspondence
• Contact Rent Smart Wales to check if your landlord and letting agent are registered and licensed (Rent Smart Wales official contact)
• Report urgent health and safety hazards to your local council’s environmental health team
• If all else fails, consider a formal complaint or legal action via the courts or tribunal

Key Official Forms for Renters in Wales

• RHW2: Application to County Court for an Occupation Order
  Used if you need court protection following unlawful eviction or landlord harassment. The court may order your landlord to let you return or stop them from excluding you.
  Download Form N16A (Application for injunction)
• Complaint Form to Rent Smart Wales
  Use this to report if your landlord or agent is not registered, not licensed, or breaking renting standards.
  Rent Smart Wales - Complaints Form
• Environmental Health Complaint Form (via Local Authority)
  If your landlord ignores serious repairs or safety issues, you can ask your council's environmental health team to inspect and take enforcement action. Each local authority has its own online form— Find your local council

Each of these forms is designed to make it easier for renters to assert their rights through official channels.

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes in Wales?

The Residential Property Tribunal Wales is the main independent body dealing with disputes relating to rent increases, tenancy conditions, and unlawful eviction. Some matters—such as compensation for illegal eviction—must also be handled via the county courts.

Summary of Reporting and Enforcement Steps

• Document the problem in writing
• Contact your landlord first, stating your concerns
• Submit the appropriate complaint form or report to Rent Smart Wales or your council
• If unresolved or urgent, take legal action using official court forms or seek a tribunal hearing

Each step is designed to help renters resolve disputes and keep homes safe and fair.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What counts as an illegal eviction in Wales?
   An illegal eviction is when a landlord forces you out without following the correct legal procedure—such as changing locks without a court order or proper written notice.
2. How do I check if my landlord is licensed by Rent Smart Wales?
   You can search the official Rent Smart Wales register to confirm if your landlord or agent is legally licensed.
3. Can I claim compensation if my landlord breaks the law?
   In many cases (like unlawful eviction or harassment), you can apply to the county court for compensation. See the Form N16A information.
4. Who can help me if my landlord ignores serious repairs?
   Your local council’s environmental health team can inspect the property and force the landlord to act. Find your local council here.
5. What housing law protects renters in Wales?
   The main legislation is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Shelter Cymru: Free, independent, confidential housing advice
• Citizens Advice Cymru: Guidance on housing rights and dispute resolution
• Rent Smart Wales: Licensing authority for landlords/agents; check or report
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales: Apply for hearings or learn about tribunal processes
• Find Your Local Council: Report repairs or hazards to environmental health

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Rent Smart Wales (Welsh Government)
3. Residential Property Tribunal Wales
4. Official County Court Application for Injunction (Form N16A)
5. Welsh Local Authority Contacts

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