Landlord Safety Rules Every Renter Should Know in Wales

As a renter in Wales, you have the right to live in a safe, healthy, and well-maintained home. Welsh law sets out strict safety requirements your landlord must follow, designed to protect you from fire risk, faulty electrics, gas hazards, and unsafe buildings. Understanding these rules helps ensure your home remains secure, and empowers you to act if standards aren’t met.

Key Safety Requirements for Landlords in Wales

Welsh landlords must comply with several key health, safety, and fire regulations, with responsibilities that apply across all types of rented homes and are detailed in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016¹.

• Gas safety: Landlords must have all gas appliances, fittings, and flues checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer and provide tenants with a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12).
• Electrical safety: Every five years, landlords must arrange an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) by a qualified electrician, and promptly fix any hazards found.
• Smoke alarms: Every storey of a rented property must have a working smoke alarm, tested at the start of each tenancy and kept in working order.
• Carbon monoxide alarms: Alarms are required in every room with a solid fuel burning appliance (e.g., coal fire, wood stove).
• Fire safety: Properties, particularly Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), must meet additional fire safety standards, like fire doors, means of escape, and fire blankets or extinguishers as needed.
• Safe structure: The property must be free from hazards that put your health or safety at risk, including damp, mould, unsafe stairs, or a lack of heating and hot water.

These requirements aim to make sure all rented homes meet the "fitness for human habitation" standard in Wales.

Essential Forms and How Renters Should Use Them

• Gas Safety Certificate (CP12): Your landlord must provide a copy at the start of your tenancy and within 28 days of each annual check. If you haven’t received one, remind your landlord in writing. View official Gas Safety advice.
• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Ask your landlord for an up-to-date copy of the EICR, especially if you’re concerned about wiring or appliances. Learn more at the Welsh Government electrical safety page.
• Reporting Unsafe Conditions: There isn’t a numbered form, but you can use your local authority’s online complaint channels. Search for “report disrepair [your council name]” or use the official reporting guidance.

When and How to Take Action if Safety Rules Aren’t Met

If your landlord fails to follow safety regulations, here are steps you can take:

• Raise the issue in writing with your landlord and keep a copy of all communication.
• If there’s no timely response, contact your local authority’s Environmental Health department. They have powers to inspect and order the landlord to fix issues.
• For severe ongoing problems, or if you feel your tenancy is at risk as a result, matters may be taken to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Relevant Legislation in Wales

The main laws covering landlord safety responsibilities in Wales include:

• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
• Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (fitness for human habitation sections)
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (in relation to housing hazards)

For HMOs, see your council’s requirements as they may have special licensing and fire safety rules.

1. What should I do if my landlord hasn’t provided a gas or electrical safety certificate?
   Write to your landlord requesting the certificate, and if you receive no response within a reasonable time, contact your local council’s housing department. They can investigate and require the landlord to comply.
2. Are landlords allowed to rent out properties in Wales without working smoke alarms?
   No, it is a legal requirement that every storey of a rented property has a working smoke alarm. Landlords must check these regularly, especially at the start of each tenancy.
3. Can I report my landlord if they refuse to fix dangerous conditions?
   Yes. You should contact your local Environmental Health team, who can inspect the property and order repairs. If risks are serious and ongoing, you may also take the matter to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
4. Does my landlord have to provide a carbon monoxide alarm?
   Yes, if your home contains any room with a solid fuel appliance, your landlord must fit a working carbon monoxide alarm in that room.
5. What is the official tribunal for rental disputes in Wales?
   The Residential Property Tribunal Wales handles disputes relating to residential tenancies, housing standards, and landlord breaches.

Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• Landlords in Wales must follow strict safety, fire, and health rules under current Welsh law.
• You have the right to working smoke alarms, annual gas and regular electrical checks, and a property free from hazards.
• If you suspect your landlord isn’t complying, you can contact your local authority or the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for help.

By knowing your rights and the required standards, you help keep yourself and your home safe.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Renting Homes guidance
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales
• Shelter Cymru: Health, safety & repairs advice
• Find your local authority in Wales

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

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