Every renter in Wales has the right to live in a safe, well-maintained home. Understanding how to request repairs from your landlord helps protect your health and your tenancy. By following the steps outlined below, you can make sure you're acting within your rights under Welsh law and give your landlord a fair chance to resolve any issues.
What Are Landlord Repair Responsibilities in Wales?
Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, landlords are legally required to keep rented properties safe and in good repair. This includes:
- Keeping the structure and exterior (roof, walls, windows) in good repair
- Ensuring installations for water, gas, electricity, sanitation, heating, and hot water are working safely
- Making sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are fitted where required
Find full details in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.[1]
How to Report Repairs to Your Landlord
If you notice something that needs repairing, you should report it to your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible. Most tenancies require you to do this in writing.
Step-by-Step: Requesting a Repair
- Step 1: Contact your landlord in writing. Email is best, but a letter is also valid. Keep a copy for your records.
- Step 2: Describe the problem clearly. State what needs fixing, when you noticed it, and how it affects you.
- Step 3: Request a reasonable timeframe for the repair, especially if it impacts your health, safety, or security.
- Step 4: Allow access. Your landlord must give at least 24 hours' notice before entering unless it's an emergency.
For a sample repair request template, visit the official UK Government repairs and maintenance guidance.[2]
If Repairs Are Not Made: Escalating Your Request
If your landlord does not respond or complete the repair in a reasonable time, you can take further action:
- Follow up in writing, referencing your previous request.
- Gather evidence, such as photos, emails, or letters.
- Contact your local council’s Environmental Health department to inspect the property if there are health or safety risks.
Official Forms and Processes
While Wales does not have a specific national repair request form, the following steps are formally recognised:
- Record of Written Repair Request (no official number): Written evidence of your request to the landlord, recommending email or dated letter.
- Environmental Health Complaint (Contact your local council for their complaint process): Used if repairs impact health or safety and your landlord is unresponsive.
- Example: You report black mould and poor heating; your landlord does not fix it. You email the council with photos and your written requests. The council may inspect and issue an improvement notice if needed.
- Rent Repayment Order Application (if landlord fails to comply with safety standards): If the matter escalates and legal action is needed, see the Residential Property Tribunal Wales website. They handle formal disputes over repairs and housing standards in Wales.
When contacting your local council, check if they have a specific complaint or hazard report form. Procedures can vary by council, and most provide guidance online or by phone.
What If Repairs Still Aren't Done?
If all else fails, you may apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales. This is the official tribunal for housing issues, including repairs and standards disputes. See their guidance on initiating a complaint on their official website.[3]
Important: Do not withhold rent as this may lead to eviction. Always continue paying full rent while following these steps.
Keep a record of all communications, photos, and documents—you may need these if the matter goes to the tribunal or council.
FAQs: Repairs and Maintenance in Wales
- What are my landlord's duties for repairs in Wales?
Landlords must keep the structure, exterior, and key installations (heating, electrics, gas) safe and in good repair, as set out in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. - How quickly must a landlord arrange for repairs after I report them?
The law does not set exact time limits, but urgent issues like no heat or water should be handled as soon as possible. Non-urgent repairs should be done within a reasonable time. - What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
Follow up in writing, then contact your local council's Environmental Health team. If still unresolved, consider an application to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales. - Can I pay for repairs myself and deduct from rent?
Only in very specific situations and with legal advice. Always use the correct process and get formal advice before considering this step. - Is there an official form to request repairs from my landlord in Wales?
There is no national form, but always make requests in writing and keep a copy as evidence. If escalating, use your council’s complaint form or process if required.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Welsh Government: Housing and renting – Official guidance and support links
- Residential Property Tribunal Wales – For formal housing disputes or complaints
- UK Government: Private renting repairs and maintenance – National overview of rights
- Find your local council in Wales – For Environmental Health and local complaint processes
- Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – sets out repair obligations for landlords in Wales.
- UK Government: Repairs and maintenance in private renting.
- Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
