If you and your housemates believe your landlord in Wales has broken housing law, you may be able to claim money back by applying for a Rent Repayment Order (RRO). For renters, it’s important to know whether you can apply together as a group, how the process works, and which official forms and bodies are involved.
Understanding Rent Repayment Orders in Wales
A Rent Repayment Order (RRO) is a legal tool that allows renters to reclaim up to 12 months’ rent if the landlord has committed certain housing offences. Commonly, these include renting out an unlicensed property, illegally evicting tenants, or failing to protect a tenancy deposit. The rules and process for RROs in Wales are set out in the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 and related regulations.1
Can Multiple Tenants Claim Together?
Yes, in Wales, more than one tenant can combine efforts and submit a joint application for a Rent Repayment Order if you share the same property and the issue relates to the same offence or period. Group claims can help share the application workload and present a stronger case, but each tenant’s entitlement may be considered individually based on their rent paid and tenancy period.
Who Handles Your Claim?
In Wales, Rent Repayment Order cases are decided by the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales. This tribunal will consider your group application, review evidence, and make a fair decision about awarding compensation.
How to Apply Together: Step-by-Step
The process is designed to be accessible for renters. Here’s a summary of how joint claims work:
- Agree as a group: All tenants involved must consent to a joint application. Only those affected by the offence can be included.
- Gather evidence: Collect tenancy agreements, rent payment records, correspondence with the landlord, and any evidence relating to the offence.
- Complete the correct form: Joint applicants must use the Rent Repayment Order Application Form (Wales) (no official form number). Each claimant should list their details and spaces are provided for multiple applicants.
- Submit to the tribunal: Send your completed application form and supporting documents to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales as directed in the form guidance.
- Await instructions: The tribunal may request further information or schedule a hearing where you can explain your case together.
Official Form: Rent Repayment Order Application
- Form Name: Rent Repayment Order Application Form (Wales)
- Where to find it: Download from the official Residential Property Tribunal Wales website.
- When to use: When you suspect your landlord committed a relevant housing offence and want to claim rent back. For example, if you and your flatmates discover your HMO is unlicensed, you can all sign and submit this form jointly.
What Happens After Applying?
The tribunal considers all evidence and may invite you and your co-applicants to a hearing. Each person’s share of recovered rent depends on what was actually paid. Tribunals take care to ensure a fair outcome for group claims.
What Are the Benefits of Claiming Together?
Applying as a group can save time, reduce administrative work, and give extra support in preparing your case. Just make sure all co-applicants are included on the form and keep records of any communication or joint agreements.
FAQ: Joint Tenant Claims for Rent Repayment Orders in Wales
- Can all tenants from the same property apply together for an RRO?
Yes, provided all tenants were affected by the landlord's actions during the same period and offence, you can submit a joint application to the tribunal. - How is compensation divided for group claims?
The Residential Property Tribunal considers each person's rent payments and tenancy dates and may award different amounts to different tenants, depending on their situation. - Do we need to attend a hearing together?
Often yes, group applicants are invited to a hearing and can present their evidence as a team, but each person’s contribution will be reviewed separately. - Is there a time limit for making a joint claim?
You must usually apply within 12 months of the offence ending. It’s best to act promptly and gather your evidence early. - What if one tenant doesn’t want to join the group claim?
That tenant can choose not to participate, but the others can still proceed together. Only those listed on the form will be considered for repayment.
Conclusion: Key Points for Renters
- Multiple tenants in Wales can jointly apply for a Rent Repayment Order with the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales.
- Use the official Rent Repayment Order Application Form and include details for each claimant.
- Group applications may help your case, but each tenant’s circumstances are considered individually.
For the best result, gather evidence as a group and seek advice if unsure about any stage.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Residential Property Tribunal Wales – official site for RRO claims and guidance
- Renting Homes Wales (Welsh Government) – tenant advice and rights information
- Shelter Cymru – free support on housing problems
- Local council housing department – find your council via Find your local council
