RHW35 – Intention to Apply (Prohibited Conduct Contract)

Being a tenant in Wales can mean facing unfamiliar forms and tribunal processes when a landlord or managing agent raises concerns about conduct. This guide explains the RHW35 Intention to Apply for a prohibited conduct contract in plain language, shows when the form is used, which official forms you may need, and practical steps to protect your rights as a renter. You will find examples of how to respond, what evidence to gather, and where to apply if a dispute reaches the residential tribunal. The aim is to give clear, practical actions so tenants in Wales can act confidently and avoid common mistakes.

What is RHW35 and when is it used?

RHW35 is the official "Intention to Apply (Prohibited Conduct Contract)" notice used in Wales to inform a tenant that a landlord or agent intends to apply regarding prohibited conduct. The form warns a tenant about proposed action and sets out what the landlord alleges and the next steps; you should check any deadlines and consider a written response or seeking advice.

Read the RHW35 form and guidance^[1]

Official forms you may need

• RHW35 — "Intention to Apply (Prohibited Conduct Contract)": used by a landlord or agent to notify a tenant of intended application and the grounds alleged; complete example: if a landlord alleges repeated antisocial behaviour, they issue RHW35 before applying to the tribunal.
• First-tier Tribunal guidance and application pages — use these pages to find the correct application route and any tribunal forms or online portals to submit evidence and an application response.

How the residential tribunal handles prohibited conduct contracts

The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) is the body that deals with many residential tenancy disputes in England and Wales; if a landlord proceeds after RHW35, an application may be made to this tribunal for a prohibited conduct contract or related order. The tribunal will consider evidence from both parties and any contract terms before deciding whether to make an order or require remedies.^[2]

Relevant legislation

For England and Wales, the key statutes often relied on in tenancy disputes include the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977; these laws set out grounds for possession and some tenant protections. If a tribunal application refers to statutory grounds, the Housing Act 1988 is frequently cited in cases about conduct and possession.^[3]

Practical next steps for tenants

• Read the RHW35 document right away and note any deadlines or hearing dates.
• Gather evidence: dated messages, witness details, photos, repair reports or receipts that relate to the allegations.
• Contact your landlord or agent in writing to explain your view and ask for clarification of any unclear points.
• Seek free advice early from a recognised advice service or a solicitor experienced in housing law in Wales.

FAQ

What should I do first if I receive an RHW35?

Read the notice carefully, note any dates, keep a copy, gather any evidence relevant to the allegations, and seek advice from an official advice service or legal adviser.

Can a landlord evict me immediately after serving RHW35?

No. RHW35 is a notice of intention; eviction or possession normally requires an application to the tribunal and a formal order before lockout or repossession.

Where do I apply if a landlord proceeds with an application?

You or the landlord will use the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) process; follow the tribunal’s application guidance and submit evidence by the deadline.

How-To

1. Read RHW35 and note the deadline for responding or the tribunal application date.
2. Collect documents: tenancy agreement, messages, photos and any witness statements relevant to the alleged conduct.
3. Contact an official advice service for Wales to check your options and whether mediation or a written response could resolve the issue.
4. If the landlord applies to the tribunal, prepare your evidence pack and follow the First-tier Tribunal submission steps on the official site.

Key Takeaways

• Respond promptly, keep records, and get advice rather than ignoring a notice.
• The First-tier Tribunal handles these disputes; know the deadlines and how to submit evidence.

Help and Support

• Rent Smart Wales — official information for landlords and tenants in Wales
• Wales Tribunals — contact and guidance for tribunal users

1. [1] Welsh Government — RHW35 Intention to Apply (Prohibited Conduct Contract)
2. [2] GOV.UK — First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance
3. [3] Legislation.gov.uk — Housing Act 1988