Rent repayment orders for illegal evictions in Wales

Being illegally evicted is stressful. If you rent in Wales and have been forced out or blocked from your home without a court order, you may be able to apply for a rent repayment order and other compensation. This guide explains in plain language what a rent repayment order is, when it applies to tenants and renters, what evidence to collect, which official forms and tribunal to use, typical time limits, and practical next steps. It also shows where to find Welsh government and tribunal help, and how to prepare an application that a judge can consider. You do not need to be a legal expert to follow the steps here; the focus is on clear, practical actions.

What a rent repayment order covers

A rent repayment order can require a landlord to repay rent or housing payments if they committed specified offences, including illegal eviction or harassment. In Wales these cases are dealt with by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for residential property, which hears applications and decides whether repayment is appropriate.^[1]

Legal basis

The rules affecting rent repayment orders and tenant protections in Wales draw on broader England and Wales legislation, including the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977, which set out rights and certain remedies available to tenants.^[2][3]

Official forms and where to apply

Applications for a rent repayment order are made through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) process. The tribunal offers guidance and the application process on its official pages; follow the instructions there for online submission or to download any paper forms.^[1]

• Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — use the tribunal application process to request a rent repayment order; for example, a tenant who was locked out without a court order would start an application here and upload photos and rent records.
• Report the illegal eviction to the police or your local authority — if you are currently at risk or have been forced out, call the police and your local housing team so they have an official record and can advise emergency assistance.

How to prepare an application

Before applying, gather a clear, dated bundle of evidence and prepare a short chronology of events. Include the rent you paid and the dates you were prevented from occupying the property.

• Note any deadlines and important dates, such as the date you were evicted and the date you first reported the issue to police or the local authority.
• Collect evidence: rent receipts, bank statements, photos of locks or damage, text messages, and witness contact details.
• Complete the tribunal application and attach the evidence bundle; the tribunal guidance explains required fields and what to include.^[1]
• Prepare to attend a hearing or provide written submissions if the tribunal accepts the case without a hearing.

FAQ

Who can apply for a rent repayment order in Wales?

A tenant or former tenant who believes they were illegally evicted or otherwise subjected to behaviour that qualifies under the relevant offences can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a rent repayment order.

What can a rent repayment order award?

The tribunal can require repayment of some or all rent paid for the period affected by the offence and may consider additional compensation depending on losses and circumstances.

How do I start an application?

Start by following the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) application process and attach evidence such as receipts, photographs and witness statements; contact the police or local authority if you need immediate help.^[1]

How-To

1. Contact emergency services or your local authority if you are currently locked out or at risk, and make a clear note of whom you spoke to and when.
2. Gather evidence: take dated photos, save messages, keep rent receipts and collect witness names and contact details.
3. Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) using the tribunal application route and attach your evidence bundle.
4. Attend the hearing or submit written evidence as directed, keep copies of the decision, and follow any orders the tribunal makes.

Help and Support / Resources

• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — official guidance and application routes
• Rent Smart Wales — licensing, landlord rules and tenant information
• Housing Act 1988 — full legislation text

1. [1] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — official guidance and application routes
2. [2] Housing Act 1988 — full legislation text
3. [3] Rent Act 1977 — full legislation text
4. [4] Rent Smart Wales — licensing, landlord rules and tenant information