Latest Updates to Housing Law for Renters in Wales

If you're renting in Wales, 2024 has brought important updates to housing law that could affect your rights and responsibilities. These changes strengthen protections for renters and set new expectations for landlords. Understanding the latest housing rules helps you make confident decisions about rent increases, notices, and repairs.

Summary of the Latest Housing Law Changes in Wales

The main reforms in Wales come from the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and its subsequent updates, which fully came into force in 2022 and have continued to shape tenancy rights. The key 2024 amendments focus on enhanced security, fairer eviction rules, and clearer obligations for both landlords and contract-holders (the new term for tenants in Wales).

Key Changes Renters Should Know

• Longer notice periods for "no-fault" evictions: Landlords must now usually give at least 6 months’ notice to end periodic standard occupation contracts (the most common type).
• Written occupation contracts required: Every renter should receive a clear written contract outlining their rights and obligations.
• Improved standards for repairs and safety: Landlords are now responsible for ensuring homes are safe, with mandatory smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and periodic electrical safety inspections.
• Clearer procedures for rent increases: Strict rules dictate how and when rent can be raised.
• Stronger protection against retaliatory eviction: It’s harder for landlords to evict a renter after complaints about repairs or conditions.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

Several official forms may be relevant for renters in Wales. Here are key examples with practical explanations:

• RHW6: Notice of Increase Under an Occupation Contract
  Use: Your landlord must use this form to inform you of a rent increase for your standard occupation contract. You should receive at least one month’s notice.
  Example: If you receive a RHW6 form, review the amount and date. If you disagree, you may challenge the increase.
  View the RHW6 Form on the Welsh Government website
• RHW16: Notice by Contract-Holder of Referral of Rent to Tribunal
  Use: If you believe a rent increase is unfair, you may use this form to ask the independent tribunal to review the proposed rent.
  Example: You receive a RHW6 rent increase notice and believe the hike is excessive; submit RHW16 within the specified timescale.
  Access the RHW16 Form
• RHW23: Notice Seeking Possession (Section 173)
  Use: If your landlord wishes to end your contract without reason (‘no fault’), they must use this form.
  Example: You receive RHW23 stating your contract will end in six months. Check it for accuracy and consider your options.
  See the RHW23 Notice Form

For more forms and guidance, visit the Welsh Government's official occupation contracts and forms hub.

How Rent Increases and Challenges Work in Wales

Renters in Wales now benefit from stricter process and protections around rent rises. In most cases, landlords can only increase rent once a year and must provide formal written notice using the correct form.

If you feel a proposed rent increase is unfair, you have a clear path to challenge it through an independent tribunal.

Action Steps to Challenge a Rent Increase

• Review your RHW6 notice to confirm the details and timing.
• If you wish to object, complete the RHW16 form to refer the increase to the tribunal within 1 month of the RHW6 notice.
• Prepare evidence for the tribunal (e.g., similar rents in your area).

The tribunal responsible for residential tenancies in Wales is Residential Property Tribunal Wales. It is independent and free for renters to use.

Current Eviction and Notice Rules

Under the updated Renting Homes (Wales) Act, landlords must usually provide at least 6 months’ written notice for ‘no fault’ evictions using a Section 173 (RHW23) notice form. Shorter notice periods may only apply if you have seriously breached your contract (for example, by not paying rent for a sustained period or causing significant property damage).

• If you receive an eviction notice, check that the correct RHW23 form has been used.
• Double-check the notice period. Six months is the minimum in most cases.
• Always seek advice if unsure or if you believe the process is not being followed correctly.

The law has significantly shifted in favour of clarity and protection for renters. Always keep written records and copies of any forms or correspondence about your tenancy.

Repairs, Maintenance, and Property Standards

Landlords must now meet new standards for property safety. This includes:

• Fitting and regularly testing smoke alarms
• Providing carbon monoxide detectors in all rooms with a solid fuel-burning appliance
• Completing electrical safety checks at least every 5 years and supplying tenants with a copy of the report

If you request repairs and they are not addressed, you may have grounds to involve your local council or seek redress.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice does my landlord need to give to end my contract in Wales?
   For most standard occupation contracts, your landlord must give at least 6 months’ written notice if using a 'no fault' (Section 173) eviction. Shorter notice applies only in cases such as serious contract breaches.
2. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time?
   No, rent can usually only be raised once per year. The landlord must use the official RHW6 notice and provide at least one month's warning.
3. What should I do if I disagree with a rent increase?
   You can challenge the increase by submitting the RHW16 form to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales within one month of receiving your RHW6 notice.
4. What if my landlord is not doing repairs?
   You can report the issue to your local council. If repairs are not completed after you request them, you may also have protection against eviction if you complain through the proper channels.
5. What legal protections do I have against unfair eviction?
   You have stronger rights than ever under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, with longer notice periods and safeguards against retaliatory eviction.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• Eviction notice periods are now 6 months for most renters in Wales
• Rent increases must be formally notified, and you can challenge them through the tribunal
• Written contracts and improved safety standards are mandatory

Staying aware of these changes will help you handle issues around rent, eviction, or property conditions more confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government Renting Homes Guidance – Official overview of your rights under the new law
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Independent body for rent and housing disputes
• Welsh Government Housing – Services for renters and other housing support
• Find your local council – For help with repairs, safety concerns, or landlord issues
• Gov.uk Renting Privately – For UK-wide guidance

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales
3. RHW6: Notice of Increase of Rent (Welsh Government Forms)
4. RHW16: Refer Increase of Rent to Tribunal
5. RHW23: Notice Seeking Possession
6. Model Occupation Contracts and Forms

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