If you are renting temporary accommodation in Wales and think your landlord has broken housing rules, you may be able to apply for a Rent Repayment Order (RRO). This page explains RROs in plain language for tenants and temporary renters, showing who can apply, common grounds, the practical steps to gather evidence, how to use official forms and where to send an application. It highlights time limits, what to expect at a tribunal and when to seek local authority or Rent Smart Wales help. The aim is to give clear actions you can take today while pointing to official GOV.UK and tribunal sources for forms and further instructions.
What is a Rent Repayment Order?
A Rent Repayment Order is a legal remedy that can require a landlord to repay some or all rent paid where they have committed certain housing offences or breached statutory duties; tenants, former tenants or local authorities may instigate claims in the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).[1]
Who can apply and when?
Tenants living in temporary accommodation in Wales may be eligible to apply if the landlord has committed offences such as unlawful eviction, harassment, licensing failures, or other breaches under housing legislation that covers England and Wales. The two principal Acts commonly referenced are the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977, which set out tenancy and repayment order rules in England and Wales.[3][4] Applications for RROs are handled by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for residential property matters in England and Wales.[2]
Common grounds for RROs
- Unlawful eviction or harassment that forced you out or interfered with your peaceable enjoyment of the accommodation.
- Landlord failed to license a property when HMO or landlord licensing rules applied and they were required to be licensed.
- Landlord ignored prohibition or improvement notices issued by the local authority relating to safety or statutory standards.
- Serious disrepair or habitability problems that made the accommodation unsafe or unliveable.
- Conviction for certain housing offences connected to the tenancy or property conditions.
How to apply
Start by checking the government guidance and the tribunal process so you use the correct application route and include the right evidence. Official guidance on rent repayment orders and where to apply is on GOV.UK, and applications are dealt with by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). GOV.UK guidance and the tribunal page are key references.[1][2]
- Check eligibility and time limits: confirm the date of the offence or breach and whether you are within the statutory period to apply.
- Gather evidence: keep tenancy agreements, rent receipts, photos, messages, repair requests and any inspection reports or notices from the council.
- Complete the application: use the tribunal application method set out on GOV.UK and follow any form instructions carefully, describing the ground for the RRO and listing evidence.
- Submit the application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and follow any service instructions in the guidance.
- Prepare for a hearing: the tribunal may list a hearing where both parties can present evidence and witnesses; bring originals and organised copies of documents.
FAQ
- Can tenants in temporary accommodation claim an RRO?
- Yes. If the landlord committed an offence or breached statutory duties that qualify for an RRO, temporary accommodation tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal to seek repayment of rent for the relevant period.
- How long will an RRO claim take?
- Timing varies. The tribunal process includes time for preparing the application, possible mediation, and a hearing. Simple claims can take a few months; more complex cases may take longer.
- Do I need a solicitor?
- You can represent yourself; many tenants do. Legal help or a tenant adviser can assist with evidence and tribunal procedure if the case is complex.
How-To
- Check whether the landlord's conduct fits RRO grounds and confirm you are within any time limits.
- Collect and copy all evidence including tenancy agreements, receipts and any council notices.
- Follow the GOV.UK guidance to complete the tribunal application accurately and attach supporting documents.
- Submit your application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) by the method stated in the guidance.
- Attend the hearing, present your evidence calmly, and ask for a written decision if you are unsure about the outcome.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Smart Wales – landlord registration, licensing and reporting concerns in Wales.
- Welsh Government: Housing – policy, homelessness and support for tenants in Wales.
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – how to make a claim and tribunal contact details.
