Staying in Your Home After a Fixed-Term Tenancy Ends in Wales

If your fixed-term tenancy in Wales is about to end, you may be wondering what happens next and whether you can continue living in your home. With recent changes to renting legislation in Wales, understanding your rights is more important than ever. This guide explains what happens when a fixed-term agreement ends, your options as a renter, and the steps you may need to take for a secure and stable home.

What Happens When Your Fixed-Term Tenancy Ends?

In Wales, since 1 December 2022, most new tenancies have become known as "occupation contracts" under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016^[1]. If you signed an occupation contract with a fixed term (e.g. 12 months), when that period ends, several things can happen:

• Your landlord can offer you a new fixed-term contract: You can agree on another fixed period if both you and your landlord wish.
• Your contract becomes periodic: If you don't sign a new fixed-term, your occupation contract automatically becomes a "periodic" one, usually rolling month-to-month, unless your landlord takes steps to end it.
• Your landlord asks you to leave: To do this legally, they must serve the correct notice.

In most cases, you do not have to move out immediately when the fixed term ends unless your landlord has given you proper written notice and followed the law.

Your Rights to Stay: Periodic Occupation Contracts

Once a fixed term ends in Wales, your status as a "contract-holder" usually continues automatically under a periodic occupation contract.

• No new agreement is needed—your contract simply continues on a rolling basis.
• Your rights and responsibilities generally remain the same as before.

If your landlord wants to end your contract, they must follow the formal legal process as set out in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, section on possession^[1].

What Notices Can Your Landlord Give You?

If your landlord wishes you to leave, they must serve a written notice. The type and timing depend on the circumstances:

• Notice to end a periodic contract (Section 173 notice): For no-fault evictions after 1 December 2022, your landlord must give you at least 6 months' notice using the correct form. This can only be served once any fixed-term period has ended.
• Notice for breach of contract: If you've broken the terms (such as rent arrears), your landlord may be able to give a shorter notice period.

To check the exact requirements and download forms, visit the official Welsh Government guidance for landlords.

Relevant Official Forms for Wales Renters

• RHW17: Section 173 Notice
  Used when a landlord wishes to end a periodic standard occupation contract for no reason (no-fault eviction).
  Example: If your fixed term has ended and your landlord wants you to leave, they must complete the RHW17 form and give you at least 6 months’ notice.
  Access RHW17: Notice to End a Periodic Standard Contract
• RHW23: Notice for Breach of Contract (Possession)
  Used if the landlord claims you’ve breached the contract (e.g. serious rent arrears). The notice period may be much shorter.
  Example: If you fall behind on rent significantly, your landlord might use this form to start the repossession process.
  Access RHW23: Notice Requiring Possession Following Breach of Contract

If you receive one of these notices, it's important to read it carefully and seek advice if unsure about your rights.
For further information, see all official Renting Homes (Wales) forms.

How to Challenge or Appeal an Eviction Notice

If you believe your landlord hasn’t followed the correct legal process, you can challenge the notice or the eviction in court.

• The court dealing with tenancy possession claims in Wales is your local County Court.
• If you receive notice, don't ignore it—seek help from Shelter Cymru or your local authority.

Key Points If You Want to Stay

• Your occupation contract usually continues as periodic after the fixed-term ends.
• You can only be asked to leave with proper notice, using official forms.
• Your landlord must comply with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and give you sufficient notice, usually 6 months for no-fault evictions.

If your landlord pressures you to leave without proper notice, you are not legally obliged to move out. Seek support before agreeing to anything.

FAQs: Staying After a Fixed-Term Tenancy in Wales

1. Can my landlord make me leave as soon as the fixed term ends?
   No, you have the right to remain in your home after the fixed-term ends unless your landlord gives you written notice in line with the law.
2. What type of contract do I have after my fixed-term ends?
   Your contract usually becomes a periodic occupation contract, continuing on a rolling basis with similar rights and responsibilities.
3. How much notice does my landlord have to give me?
   For standard no-fault evictions, your landlord must give at least 6 months’ notice after the fixed-term ends, using the correct form.
4. What should I do if I get an eviction notice?
   Carefully check the notice, keep all documents, and seek advice from organisations like Shelter Cymru or your local council before responding.
5. Could I be evicted for asking for repairs?
   No, it is illegal for landlords to evict you in retaliation for requesting repairs under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Conclusion: What Renters in Wales Need to Know

• You have a right to stay in your home after a fixed-term ends—your contract becomes periodic by default.
• Landlords can only ask you to leave by giving written notice and following legal procedures.
• Always check any notice against the official guidance and seek advice if you have questions.

With these protections in place, you can feel more secure about your housing situation in Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government Guidance: Contract Holders
• Shelter Cymru Advice Service – free, confidential advice for renters
• Citizens Advice Housing in Wales
• Find your local County Court for tenancy disputes

---

1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation