Notice Periods for Rent Increases in Wales: A Renter’s Guide

If you rent your home in Wales, you may wonder how much notice your landlord must give before raising your rent. Understanding the legal notice period and the proper process helps renters stay in control and challenge any unfair or unlawful increases. This article will guide you through the rules, official forms, and your options if you feel a rent rise is not justified.

Legal Rules for Rent Increases in Wales

In Wales, since 1 December 2022, most new rental agreements are known as occupation contracts under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. Whether you have a fixed-term or periodic contract, there are strict requirements for increasing your rent.

• Periodic Contracts: Your landlord can only increase the rent once every 12 months.
• Fixed-Term Contracts: Rent can only be increased if your contract states so, usually with a clause detailing the process.

Landlords must give at least two months' written notice before a rent increase takes effect. This applies to both new and existing periodic occupation contracts in Wales.^[1]

The RHW12 Form: Official Notice for Rent Increases

Landlords in Wales must use the official RHW12: Notice of Rent Variation form when notifying tenants of a rent increase.

• When is RHW12 used? The RHW12 form is required for all periodic occupation contracts (including those converted from old assured shorthold tenancies) when a landlord wants to change the rent.
• How is it delivered? It must be provided in writing, either in hard copy or by email if you have agreed to receive notices electronically.
• Practical example: You receive an RHW12 form from your landlord by email, stating your rent will go up in two months' time. The form must include the new rent amount, the date it applies from, and your right to challenge it.
• View or download the RHW12 form from the official Welsh Government site.

Your Rights: Challenging a Rent Increase in Wales

You do not have to accept a rent increase without question. If you think the new rent is excessive or unfair, you have the right to challenge it. This is handled by the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

• Deadline: You must apply to the tribunal before the new rent takes effect – the date given on the RHW12 notice.
• How it works: The tribunal assesses what the market rent for similar properties in your area should be. It may decide to keep the proposed increase, set a different amount, or even reduce your rent.
• For step-by-step help, visit the Residential Property Tribunal Wales forms and guidance page.

Key Points on Notice Periods and Process

• Your landlord must give at least two months’ notice using RHW12
• Rent can only be increased once every 12 months for periodic occupation contracts
• You have the right to challenge a rent increase at the tribunal

Staying informed about the correct legal process puts you in a strong position to resolve any rent disputes fairly.

Relevant Legislation

• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016: Rent Variation provisions

1. What form must my landlord use to increase my rent in Wales?
   Your landlord must use the official RHW12: Notice of Rent Variation form for periodic occupation contracts. You should receive this in writing at least two months before any increase.
2. How much notice must I be given before my rent goes up?
   You must be given a minimum of two months’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect in Wales, as per the legislation.
3. Can my landlord increase the rent more than once a year?
   No, for periodic occupation contracts, rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
4. What should I do if I think the rent increase is unfair?
   You can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales before the increase takes effect, asking them to review the proposed rent. The tribunal will compare your rent to similar properties and decide if the increase is reasonable.
5. Where can I get help if I don't understand the rent increase notice?
   Contact your local council’s housing team, Rent Smart Wales, or seek independent advice from Citizens Advice Cymru or Shelter Cymru.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• Any rent increase must be in writing using the RHW12 form and give you at least two months’ notice.
• You can challenge the increase at the Residential Property Tribunal Wales if you act before the new rent starts.
• There are resources and agencies to support you if you need advice or want to challenge a rent increase.

By knowing your rights and the correct process, you’re better equipped to handle potential rent increases confidently and fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government Renting Homes Guidance
• RHW12: Notice of Rent Variation (official form)
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Guidance and application forms to challenge rent increases
• Rent Smart Wales – Register of landlords and advice
• Citizens Advice Cymru – Renting Privately
• Shelter Cymru: Renting Advice

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1. [1] Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – Rent Variation Provisions
2. Welsh Government: RHW12 – Notice of Rent Variation
3. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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