Renewing Your Tenancy Agreement in Wales: A Guide for Renters

When your fixed-term tenancy in Wales is coming to an end, understanding the renewal process can help protect your rights and ensure you can stay in your home with confidence. Welsh tenants benefit from protections under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, but the process and paperwork can differ from England or Scotland. This article will clearly explain how to renew a tenancy in Wales, including forms, notice periods, and what to expect if your landlord suggests a rent change or other new terms.

Understanding Tenancy Types in Wales

If you rent your home in Wales, you're likely an 'occupation contract holder' under the current Welsh housing law. Most renters have either a 'standard occupation contract' (similar to an assured shorthold tenancy) or a 'secure occupation contract' (usually with community landlords or councils).

Most contract holders in Wales will deal with two main ways their agreement can continue:

• Renewal by signing a new written contract (for a new fixed term)
• Automatic periodic continuation (if neither party ends it)

Let's look at each option to help you plan your next steps.

How to Renew Your Tenancy Agreement

As your fixed term comes to an end, your options for staying in your home depend on discussions with your landlord and your current contract type. Here’s a practical overview:

Option 1: Sign a New Fixed-Term Occupation Contract

• Your landlord may offer a new written contract for another fixed period (e.g., another 6 or 12 months).
• This must be provided in writing — Welsh law requires written contracts. Your landlord should give you the new terms at least 14 days before the new contract starts whenever possible.
• Check the contract closely for any rent increases, changes to terms, or additional restrictions before signing.

If you're unsure whether to accept new terms, you can seek advice before signing. You can find a guide to getting a written statement of your occupation contract on the Welsh Government website.

Option 2: Move to a Periodic (Rolling) Contract

• If you and your landlord do not sign a new fixed-term contract, your agreement is likely to continue as a ‘periodic’ occupation contract after the fixed term ends.
• This means you still have renter protections, but the contract rolls on week-to-week or month-to-month, depending on how often you pay rent.
• Your landlord must still give you proper notice and follow strict rules to end your contract (usually 6 months for most standard contracts), unless there are serious breaches.

This process is automatic under Welsh law. You do not need to fill out a particular form if you move from a fixed term to a periodic contract.

Important Forms and Documents for Renewal

• Written Statement of the Occupation Contract: Your landlord is required to provide you with a written statement of your contract, whether you’re renewing or allowing it to become periodic. You can read about these requirements on the Welsh Government website.
• Form RHW19 (Notice of Rent Increase): If your landlord wants to increase the rent, they must issue a Notice Varying the Rent (Form RHW19). This form is used to notify a change in rent for standard and secure contracts.

Example: If you receive a Form RHW19 stating your rent will go up when your new period starts, you have at least one month’s notice to review or challenge it (see next section on challenging rent increases).

Challenging Unfair Rent Increases or New Terms

If you disagree with a proposed rent increase or new contract terms, you have the right to:

• Negotiate with your landlord for fairer terms
• Refer the matter to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales, which hears tenancy disputes and rent challenges

If you wish to challenge a rent increase, you must do so before the increase takes effect — follow the instructions in the RHW19 form.

Step-by-Step: Challenging a Rent Increase in Wales

• Check the date on Form RHW19 and ensure proper notice was given (at least one month)
• Respond to your landlord in writing with your concerns or objections
• If unresolved, apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for a decision

Can My Landlord Refuse to Renew My Tenancy?

Your landlord can choose not to offer a new fixed-term contract but must still follow the legal process to end your contract, which usually involves giving proper written notice (generally 6 months for most contracts, unless you have breached the contract).

You can find more details about ending occupation contracts on the Welsh Government's page on ending occupation contracts.

FAQ: Renewing Tenancies in Wales

1. What happens if I don’t sign a new contract?
   If neither you nor your landlord signs a new contract, your existing agreement usually continues as a periodic (rolling) contract, offering ongoing protections under Welsh law.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent when renewing?
   Yes, but they must provide written notice using Form RHW19, giving you at least one month’s notice before any increase takes effect.
3. What if my landlord won’t give me a written statement?
   Your landlord must provide a written statement of your agreement. If they do not, you can write to request one and seek help from Rent Smart Wales or your local council if problems continue.
4. How do I challenge unfair contract terms?
   You can first negotiate directly, but if unresolved, disputes (including rent increases) can be taken to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
5. Where can I get help if I’m worried about my tenancy ending?
   You can contact Rent Smart Wales, Shelter Cymru, or your local council housing advice service for free support and guidance.

Key Takeaways for Renewing Your Tenancy in Wales

• You may renew your tenancy by signing a new contract or let it become periodic automatically
• Written statements and forms such as RHW19 are key protection tools — keep copies
• Disputes, especially about rent, can be brought to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales

Plan ahead. Knowing your rights under Welsh law helps you negotiate confidently and maintain housing security.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Your guide to Renting Homes (Wales)
• Rent Smart Wales – Information for tenants
• Shelter Cymru – Housing advice for renters
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Tenant and rent disputes
• Contact your local council's housing advice team for personalised support

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Welsh Government – Your guide to renting homes Wales
3. Residential Property Tribunal Wales
4. Notice Varying the Rent (Form RHW19)
5. Written statement guidance – Welsh Government

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