RHW4 – Change in Landlord’s Address

Changing a landlord's address can matter for any renter in Wales. If your landlord moves or gives a new business address, you must know how this affects where notices can be sent, who to contact about repairs, and where legal papers are served. This guide explains practical steps tenants can take — how to check the landlord's registered details, use official notification procedures, update a tenancy agreement, and when to contact the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if there is a dispute. It uses plain language and gives examples so you can act confidently, protect your rights, and keep records that show you tried to notify the landlord and relevant authorities.

Why a landlord's address matters

Your landlord's address determines where you should send notices, who receives official documents, and where agents can be contacted about repairs or rent. If the landlord changes address but does not tell you, you may risk losing the ability to deliver a notice properly or miss important safety or tenancy information. The rules that set out how notices are served and how tenancy law operates are found in primary legislation and tribunal practice in England & Wales.^[1][2]

Who handles disputes about addresses and service

If you cannot resolve an address or service dispute with your landlord, the relevant tribunal for residential tenancy disputes in England and Wales is the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). You can find guidance on making applications and how hearings proceed on the tribunal pages. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)^[3]

Common scenarios and tenant actions

Below are typical situations where the landlord's address change matters and what tenants should do.

• Receiving a rent increase or formal demand: ask for the landlord's new address in writing and keep a copy of your request.
• Reporting repairs: send the repair request to the landlord's known contact and keep evidence; if an agent answered before, include them in the message.
• Receiving or serving notices (e.g., eviction or possession): check the tenancy agreement and applicable legislation about how notices must be served.

Official forms and documents to know about

These are the main official sources or forms tenants commonly rely on when an address change affects a tenancy. Where a specific numbered form exists you will see that noted; where local systems are used, we explain how to obtain the form.

• RHW4 — change in landlord's address (local notification/template): where a housing agency or local authority uses an "RHW4" notice or a similar template, request the form from that body or your landlord and keep a dated copy. This is typically used to notify a change of official contact details for service of notices.
• First-tier Tribunal application guidance and forms: use the tribunal guidance if you need the tribunal to decide who is the correct person to serve or to resolve a dispute about whether service was effective. Apply using the tribunal's published process for property matters.
• Tenancy agreement and any written landlord/agent authorisation: this is not a numbered government form but it is the primary document that shows where notices should be sent. Keep copies and note any clause about how notices are to be served.

How to notify or check a landlord's address — practical steps

Use the steps below to verify a landlord's address and to give your own formal notification if required. Keep records at every stage.

1. Check the tenancy agreement and any correspondence for a stated service address; note whether the agreement allows service by email, post, or agent.
2. Write to the landlord's last known address and by email if you have it, stating the change you need to note and requesting confirmation of the new address; send the postal copy by recorded delivery.
3. If the landlord is registered with Rent Smart Wales or another registration service, ask the register or local authority how to update details or request the correct contact details.
4. If you cannot get a reply and a notice is time-critical, follow the service rules in legislation and get legal advice or use tribunal guidance to apply for a ruling on effective service.

FAQ

What should I do first if my landlord has a new address?

Send a written request asking for the landlord's current address and keep proof of every attempt to contact them; use recorded delivery and email where possible.

Can I serve a notice to the old address if I do not know the new one?

Service rules depend on the notice type and the tenancy agreement; you should follow the statutory rules for service and consider asking the tribunal for guidance if unsure.

Is there an official form to notify a landlord's new address?

Some local authorities, landlords or registration schemes use a change-of-details form (sometimes called RHW4 or similar). If in doubt, request the form from the landlord, the registering body, or your local authority.

Who can I contact if I cannot resolve the address question?

If you cannot resolve it directly, you can use the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or seek free local advice to consider next steps.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: tenancy agreement, recent letters, emails and any agent details.
2. Send a clear written request to the landlord's last known address and by email where possible; keep copies and receipts.
3. Use official channels: ask the landlord to update registration details with any landlord registration service or local authority, and keep proof of that request.
4. If you still cannot confirm an address and a legal deadline approaches, follow tribunal guidance and consider applying for a tribunal direction.

Key Takeaways

• Keep dated proof of every contact and make requests in writing.
• Use official registers or local authority contacts when possible to confirm landlord details.

Help and Support

• Rent Smart Wales — landlord registration and change of details
• Welsh Government — private rented sector guidance

1. [1] Housing Act 1988 (legislation.gov.uk)
2. [2] Rent Act 1977 (legislation.gov.uk)
3. [3] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance (GOV.UK)