RHW15 – Temporary Exclusion (Supported)

If you live in supported housing in Wales and have been given a temporary exclusion notice, this page explains what that means for you as a tenant or resident, what paperwork you may see, and the practical steps you can take. Temporary exclusion can be used to remove access to part of a property for safety, repairs or risk management; it is different from an eviction and has strict time limits and conditions. This guide uses plain language to cover when a notice is lawful, how to check the paperwork, what official forms may be involved and where to get help from the tribunal or local authority.

What is a temporary exclusion?

A temporary exclusion is a written notice that limits a tenant or resident’s right to use part (or all) of supported accommodation for a short, defined period. The legal background for tenancy rights in England and Wales includes the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977, which set general rules about possession and tenancy protections ^[1][2]. In Wales, the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 changes how some tenancy rights are expressed for supported housing and affects how notices should be given and interpreted ^[4].

When a temporary exclusion may be used

• The landlord believes there is a safety risk to other residents that requires temporary removal from a room or communal area.
• Short-term repair or maintenance work that makes an area unusable.
• Behaviour or risk-management measures in supported accommodation where support staff and the landlord approve a temporary exclusion.
• Where the notice specifies clear start and end dates and any review date.

Forms and official paperwork you may see

Common official documents connected to a temporary exclusion include:

• RHW15 – Notice of Temporary Exclusion (supported accommodation). This form should state the reason for exclusion, the area affected, and the start and end dates. Check the official RHW15 wording and guidance before signing or accepting the notice.
• Written risk assessments or incident reports from support staff that explain why the exclusion was needed.
• Any review or appeal deadlines; keep a note of dates so you can challenge the decision on time.

Your rights and immediate actions

If you receive a notice, do these things right away:

• Ask for a written copy of the RHW15 and any supporting reports or risk assessments.
• Contact the landlord or manager to request a clear explanation and details of review or appeal steps.
• If you have support workers, involve them and request a meeting to discuss safe alternatives while the exclusion is in place.
• If the notice looks unlawful or you disagree, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a review or decision; the tribunal handles residential tenancy disputes in England and Wales First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)^[3].

Evidence to collect

Good evidence improves your position if you challenge a notice. Collect:

• Copies or photographs of the RHW15 and any attached reports.
• Names and contact details of staff or witnesses who can confirm events.
• Records of any financial losses if exclusion forces you to pay for alternative accommodation.

FAQ

Can my landlord exclude me temporarily without warning?

Your landlord should give a written notice stating the reason and time limits; sudden emergency steps may be taken for immediate safety but must be followed by written confirmation.

How long can a temporary exclusion last?

There is no single time limit for all cases; exclusions should be proportionate and for the shortest time necessary. Check the RHW15 for dates and any review provisions.

Can I challenge an RHW15 notice?

Yes. Request the paperwork, gather evidence and ask for a review; you can also apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if the matter cannot be resolved locally.

Should I stop paying rent while excluded?

Do not stop paying rent without legal advice or tribunal permission; stopping payments can create rent arrears even if you are temporarily excluded.

How-To

1. Request the RHW15 and any supporting reports in writing and note the date you received them.
2. Contact your support worker or advocacy service to discuss safety plans and alternative accommodation if needed.
3. Gather evidence: photos, witness names and any correspondence about the incident or repairs.
4. If you cannot resolve it, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision and submit your evidence by the stated deadline.

Key Takeaways

• Temporary exclusion should be proportionate and time-limited with written reasons.
• Ask for RHW15 and supporting documents immediately and record all dates.
• Seek tribunal review if the notice is unclear or you believe it is unjustified.

Help and Support

• RHW15 – Notice of Temporary Exclusion (gov.wales)
• Renting Homes (Wales) Act guidance (gov.wales)
• Rent Smart Wales (official service)

1. [1] Housing Act 1988 (legislation.gov.uk)
2. [2] Rent Act 1977 (legislation.gov.uk)
3. [3] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) (GOV.UK)
4. [4] Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 (legislation.gov.uk)
5. [5] RHW15 Notice of Temporary Exclusion (gov.wales)