Landlord Legal Responsibilities: Renter Rights in Wales

Dealing with landlord issues can be stressful—especially if you’re unsure whether your landlord is acting within the law in Wales. From repairs to eviction notices and rent increases, it’s important to know your rights as a tenant so you can take confident steps to resolve any problems and protect yourself.

Understanding Landlord Duties in Wales

In Wales, landlord and tenant relationships are governed by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. This law sets out clear rules that landlords must follow to keep their properties safe, handle repairs, manage deposits, and give proper notice for any changes to your contract or rent.

Key Legal Responsibilities for Landlords

• Safe Homes: Ensure your home is fit for human habitation (safeguarding against damp, mould, and faulty electrics).
• Timely Repairs: Address reported repairs within a reasonable timeframe.
• Deposit Protection: Protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme and provide written details within 30 days.
• Written Agreements: Provide a written occupation contract outlining your and their responsibilities.
• Notice for Rent Increases and Ending Contracts: Give correct notice using official procedures.

If your landlord fails in any of these areas, they may be breaking the law in Wales.

Common Issues: Signs Your Landlord May Be Acting Unlawfully

• Not carrying out urgent repairs—even after repeated requests.
• Attempting to evict you without proper notice or without using the correct process.
• Entering your home without permission or notice (except in emergencies).
• Not protecting your deposit or refusing to return it without valid reason.
• Discriminating against you on grounds of race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics.

If You Need to Take Action: Forms and Processes in Wales

If your landlord isn’t following the law, you have clear options. The first step should always be to communicate concerns in writing and to keep copies of all correspondence.

Official Forms Renters Might Use

• RHW2: Notice of Rent Increase
  Landlords must use the RHW2 – Notice of Rent Increase to legally increase your rent. If you receive a rent increase, you may challenge it if you think it’s unfair.
  Example: If your landlord serves an RHW2 but you believe the new rent is unreasonable, you can challenge it (see below for how).
• RHW23: Notice to Leave (No Fault/Eviction)
  When ending your contract, your landlord must use the RHW23 – Notice to End an Occupation Contract and give at least six months’ notice in standard situations.
  Example: You receive an RHW23 from your landlord; check that its timing and content comply with Welsh law.
• Challenge a Rent Increase (Submission to Tribunal)
  If you think a rent increase is unfair, you can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for a rent assessment.

Where Can You Make Complaints or Challenge Decisions?

The Residential Property Tribunal Wales can decide on disputes about rent increases, contract issues, and some repairs. They handle cases under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

What To Do If You Suspect Your Landlord Is Breaking the Law

If communication does not resolve the problem, consider the following:

• Contact your local council’s housing enforcement team about health and safety or harassment issues.
• Gather evidence: photographs, dated letters, and timelines.
• If facing illegal eviction or harassment, contact the police (illegal eviction is a criminal offence).
• Submit a complaint to Rent Smart Wales if your landlord isn’t registered (Report to Rent Smart Wales).
• Apply to the Residential Property Tribunal as appropriate.

Quick action helps prevent problems from escalating. The sooner you seek advice or report concerns, the better protected you will be.

FAQ: Your Questions About Landlord Law in Wales

1. What notice must my landlord give before increasing my rent in Wales?
   Landlords must serve an RHW2 – Notice of Rent Increase with at least two months’ notice and can only increase rent once every 12 months for most standard occupation contracts.
2. How do I challenge a rent increase if I think it’s too high?
   You can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for a rent assessment within two months of receiving the RHW2 notice. They will review and decide if the increase is fair based on local market values.
3. What if my landlord refuses to carry out repairs?
   Contact your landlord in writing first. If the issue is not resolved, report the disrepair to your local council or, in some cases, apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for help.
4. Do I have to let my landlord into my home at any time?
   No. Your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before visiting, unless it’s an emergency (like a major water leak).
5. What should I do if my landlord tries to evict me without correct notice?
   Seek urgent advice from Shelter Cymru or your local council. Illegal eviction is a criminal offence and the police may be able to help.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• Your landlord has strict legal duties under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.
• Notices and forms must be official and properly served—double-check if you’re unsure.
• If you're concerned, take action promptly and know there are resources to support you.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – dispute resolution for rent, contracts, and repairs.
• Rent Smart Wales – check landlord registration or report unregistered landlords.
• Shelter Cymru – free expert housing advice and support.
• Welsh Government Housing: Renting Guidance – official guides and policies for private renters.
• Your local council’s housing team – support for repairs, harassment, and other issues.

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales
3. RHW2: Notice of Rent Increase (Welsh Government)
4. RHW23: Notice to End an Occupation Contract (Welsh Government)
5. Report to Rent Smart Wales

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