Renters Reform Law Changes for Wales: Your Rights Explained

If you rent a home in Wales, it’s vital to understand the recent changes to renter protections and tenancy laws. With new rent reform regulations in force, major updates now affect your rights around eviction, rent increases, notice periods, and more. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate the landscape in Wales, including how the changes differ from England and the official resources available to you.

Key Changes Affecting Renters in Wales

Wales has not adopted England’s Renters Reform Bill but instead launched its own changes through the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and supporting regulations. These rules overhaul assured and assured shorthold tenancies, introducing new types of agreements and boosting renter protections since December 2022.

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

This law replaced almost all previous private and social rental agreements in Wales with ‘occupation contracts’. As a tenant (called a ‘contract-holder’), your key rights are now set out in this new legislation.

• All new and existing tenancies have converted to ‘occupation contracts’
• Every contract-holder must receive a written contract from the landlord
• Longer notice periods for ‘no-fault’ eviction (now 6 months for most standard contracts)
• Greater security of tenure and clearer repair rights
• Required electrical safety checks and smoke/carbon monoxide alarms

Read the full Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Notice Periods and Eviction Protection

If your landlord wants to end your contract without fault, they must now give at least 6 months’ written notice for all 'standard contracts' started after 1 December 2022. For existing renters whose contracts began before that date, you should get at least 2 months’ notice, unless the contract has already converted to the new rules.

Landlords still need to follow strict procedures for eviction due to rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, often requiring shorter notice but proof of the issue.

Common Official Forms for Renters in Wales

• RHW2 – Model Written Statement of a Standard Occupation Contract
  When used: When starting or converting to a new standard occupation contract, your landlord must serve this as the official contract statement. It outlines your rights and responsibilities.
  Download the RHW2 official model and compare with your contract.
• RHW19 – Notice Seeking Possession for Serious Rent Arrears
  When used: If a landlord claims you are in serious rent arrears, they must serve this notice before applying to evict you. Renters should check service and seek advice immediately.
  View and download RHW19 form direct from the Welsh Government.
• RHW23 – Notice to End a Standard Contract
  When used: For landlords to end a standard occupation contract under the new 6-month notice rules. Renters should read this carefully and check the notice period.
  Get the official RHW23 notice form from the Welsh Government website.

These forms ensure your landlord follows correct legal processes. If you receive any notice, it’s important to review the dates and contact a support service promptly if unsure.

Where to Challenge Rental Disputes and Notices

The main body handling tenancy disagreements and eviction claims in Wales is the County Court. However, for repairs or housing condition complaints, renters may also approach their local council’s Environmental Health team. Enforcement of many renter protection laws is now led by Rent Smart Wales.

Main Tenancy Legislation in Wales

• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
• The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 (Amendment) Regulations 2022
• Rent Smart Wales registration/licensing rules

These laws define your main housing rights as a renter in Wales. If you’re unsure what type of contract you hold, check your written statement or seek assistance.

If you receive a notice you don’t understand, seek advice from Rent Smart Wales or Citizens Advice Cymru promptly to ensure you protect your rights.

FAQ: Wales Renter Reforms and Your Rights

1. Do I need to sign a new contract if I already live in my rental?
   No, but your existing tenancy automatically converts to an ‘occupation contract’ and you must be given a written statement by your landlord outlining your new rights and terms.
2. What should I do if my landlord gives me a notice to leave?
   Check the notice carefully for errors and confirm it uses an official form like RHW23. If you’re unsure it’s valid, contact your local Citizens Advice or Rent Smart Wales for help.
3. Can my landlord raise my rent under the new law?
   Yes—but they must follow the contract rules for notice (usually at least one month in writing). You may object if increases are excessive or breach contract terms; discuss with your landlord or seek advice.
4. How do I report serious repair or safety issues?
   Report repairs in writing to your landlord first. If you get no response, contact your council’s Environmental Health team or Rent Smart Wales for enforcement action.
5. What body handles disputes in Wales?
   The County Court handles eviction or possession claims. Rent Smart Wales and your local council can help with safety, standards, and landlord licensing issues.

Conclusion: Essential Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• Your rental agreement is likely now an 'occupation contract' under new Welsh law
• Eviction notice periods for most contracts are now 6 months unless rent arrears or misconduct applies
• All notices must be on official forms; seek help if you’re unsure of their validity

Stay informed and do not hesitate to reach out for support on repairs, eviction, or contract changes. These changes are designed to strengthen your security and clarify rights as a renter in Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government – Housing Information
• County Courts: Tenant Dispute Procedures
• Rent Smart Wales – Landlord and Renter Support
• Citizens Advice Cymru – Renting Privately
• Shelter Cymru – Housing Advice

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Welsh Government: Model Occupation Contract RHW2
3. Welsh Government: RHW19 Form
4. Welsh Government: RHW23 Form
5. Rent Smart Wales Licensing and Support

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