Occupation Contract Terms: What Changed in Wales

Renting in Wales has changed since the introduction of occupation contracts. This guide helps tenants and renters understand what those contract terms mean for everyday rights such as rent rises, repairs, and how possessions or evictions are started. It explains the new written statement you should get when you move in, where to find official forms, and practical steps to challenge unfair terms or notices. I focus on clear, practical advice for people who are not legal experts and point to the exact official sources and forms you may need. If you are facing a rent increase, a dispute about repairs, or a notice to leave, this page shows what to check and what actions to take.

What changed for tenants in Wales

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act created a single legal framework called an "occupation contract" to replace many older tenancy types. The Act changed how contracts are given, how notices work and introduced a required written statement of terms for most occupiers.^[1] While England and Wales still refer to older acts for some landlord powers, tenants in Wales now rely primarily on the new occupation contract rules alongside long-standing laws such as the Housing Act 1988.^[2]

Key tenant impacts

• You must be given a clear written statement of occupation contract terms when you move in, explaining rent, repairs and notice rules.
• Rules about how and when rent can be increased are set out in the contract and subject to statutory limits and notice periods.
• Landlords remain responsible for most repairs and habitability standards; you should report issues in writing and keep records.
• Eviction or possession procedures now depend on the grounds shown in the occupation contract and court or tribunal processes, not informal demands.

Every tenant should check their written statement carefully on move‑in. The Welsh Government and guidance set out a standard written statement that landlords should provide; you can read the official guidance and example statement for Wales for what to expect when you move in.^[3]

Official forms tenants may see

Some older forms remain in use for specific legal actions. Examples include the notice form historically used to seek possession under an assured shorthold tenancy (Form 6A) and court claim forms such as the N5 if a landlord starts a possession claim. If you receive a dated notice or court form, note the deadline and get advice promptly.

Form 6A (notice seeking possession under an assured shorthold tenancy) is available from GOV.UK and shows when a landlord claimed possession for an AST; tenants should read it to see the ground and timeline claimed. Form 6A^[4]

The N5 possession claim form starts a court claim for possession and explains the landlord's reasons; if you get one, you have a short time to respond or agree next steps with the court or seek legal help. N5^[5]

Practical steps if you have a problem

• Read your written statement and highlight the clauses about rent, repairs and termination timelines.
• Report repairs in writing, keep copies of emails or messages and photographs as evidence.
• If you receive a notice, check exactly which ground is used and any deadline to respond or vacate.
• Contact the landlord in writing to try mediation or an agreed solution before escalation.

FAQ

What is an occupation contract in Wales?

An occupation contract is the standard legal agreement under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act that sets out rights and responsibilities for occupiers and landlords.

Do I still get a written statement?

Yes. Most occupiers must receive a written statement of contract terms when they move in; it explains rent, notice periods and key obligations.

Who handles disputes about contract terms?

Disputes may go to court or, for some matters, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or relevant local enforcement body; seek local advice early.

How-To

1. Check your written statement immediately on move‑in and save a dated copy.
2. Document and report any repair issues in writing and keep photos and messages as evidence.
3. If you receive a notice or form, note the deadlines and read which ground the landlord relies on.
4. Contact the landlord or agent in writing to propose a reasonable resolution or to request clarification.
5. If a possession claim starts, get advice immediately and consider asking the court for more time to respond.

Help and Support / Resources

• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
• Renting Homes (Wales) guidance - Welsh Government
• Rent Smart Wales - Welsh Government

1. [1] Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] Housing Act 1988 - legislation.gov.uk
3. [3] Renting Homes guidance and standard written statement - GOV.WALES
4. [4] Form 6A - GOV.UK
5. [5] N5 claim for possession of property - GOV.UK