Many renters in Wales find it confusing to know what their landlord must do and when. This guide explains landlord obligations under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act in plain language, helping tenants understand rights on repairs, safety, rent changes, deposits and notices. You will learn what landlords must provide, how to request repairs, what a lawful notice looks like, and when to seek help from official bodies. Practical examples show how to use the correct forms and where to record evidence. If you are facing a repair delay, a proposed rent increase, or a notice to leave, this article explains steps to protect your rights and how to contact the right Welsh authorities for support.
What landlords must provide
The law that defines landlord duties is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016[1]. Tenants are protected from unsafe conditions and have rights to certain information and documents from their landlord.
- Repairs and maintenance: landlords must keep the structure, exterior and installations for water, gas and electricity in repair and working order.
- Safety and compliance: landlords must ensure gas and electrical safety where required and provide applicable certificates.
- Deposits and money: where a deposit is taken it should be handled transparently and protected as required.
- Written contract and prescribed information: tenants must be given the occupation contract and required information; official guidance explains what to expect.
- Privacy and entry: landlords must give proper notice before entering, except in emergencies.
Forms tenants should know about
The Welsh Government publishes guidance and model documents that explain what an occupation contract should contain; check official guidance for templates and details: Welsh Government guidance on the Renting Homes (Wales) Act[2]. Examples of official forms and submissions you may encounter are listed and explained below.
Key official forms and when to use them
- Occupation contract / written statement (no single UK-wide form number) — this is the main contract a tenant receives. When you move in, read it to check permitted types of notice, rent, and responsibilities; for example, use it to confirm who is responsible for repairs to a boiler.
- Prescribed information and notices under the Act — used when the landlord serves formal notices about tenancy terms or changes; keep copies and dates for any legal step.
- Rent Smart Wales registration application (landlord/agent forms) — landlords and agents must use Rent Smart Wales to register and apply for licences where required, and tenants can check registration status.
Licensing, training and penalties
In Wales, Rent Smart Wales manages landlord and agent registration, licensing and enforcement. Landlords must follow registration and training rules; failure can lead to fines and restrictions. To check or report registration issues, use the Rent Smart Wales service: Rent Smart Wales[3].
- Apply to register as a landlord or agent using the Rent Smart Wales online service.
- Complete required landlord training and licensing steps where applicable.
- Penalties: non-compliance can lead to fines and enforcement action under Welsh regulations.
FAQ
- Can my landlord evict me without a court order?
- No. A landlord must follow the statutory process for ending an occupation contract and cannot lawfully force you out without a court or tribunal order in most cases.
- How long should repairs take?
- There is no fixed single deadline for every repair; landlords must act within a reasonable time depending on severity. Report urgent issues immediately and keep records.
- What notice period must a landlord give?
- Notice periods depend on the contract type and reason for eviction or change; check your occupation contract and official guidance, and seek advice if unclear.
How-To
- Check your occupation contract to see stated responsibilities and any notice periods.
- Report the issue in writing to your landlord or agent, stating the problem, date and any safety concerns, and keep a copy.
- Gather evidence: take photos, keep receipts and save messages so you can show a clear history if the problem continues.
- If the landlord does not act, contact Rent Smart Wales or consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for resolution.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep properties safe and in repair and provide required documentation.
- Always report problems in writing and keep copies of all communications and evidence.
- If you cannot resolve an issue, use Rent Smart Wales or the tribunal routes to seek enforcement.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Rent Smart Wales (landlord registration and licensing)
- Welsh Government guidance on the Renting Homes (Wales) Act
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) information
