Support Services for Tenants Facing Harassment in Wales

If you’re a renter in Wales experiencing harassment from your landlord, neighbours, or letting agents, it’s important to know you are not alone. Harassment is both stressful and legally prohibited under Welsh tenancy law. This guide explains the official support services available, practical steps you can take, and where to seek trusted help—all with a focus on making your rights clear and accessible.

What Counts as Harassment?

In renting, harassment is any behaviour by a landlord (or someone acting on their behalf) designed to make you leave your home or disrupt your right to a quiet, safe living environment. Examples may include repeated unannounced visits, changing the locks, withholding essential repairs, or intimidation. Learn more about what is considered tenancy harassment in Wales from the Welsh Government.

Your Rights Under Welsh Tenancy Law

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 is the main legislation protecting renters against harassment and illegal eviction in Wales.^[1] It gives renters the right to live undisturbed, and sets clear rules for how landlords must act when accessing your home or pursuing eviction. Landlords who breach these rules can face legal action.

Immediate Steps to Take if You’re Harassed

Dealing with harassment can be overwhelming. Here are the recommended steps for tenants in Wales:

• Keep a detailed diary of incidents, including dates, times, witness details, and what happened.
• Retain any evidence, such as texts, emails, letters, or photographs.
• Report urgent safety concerns to the police via 101 (or 999 in emergencies).
• Contact your local council’s housing department for investigation and support. Find yours on the UK government's local council finder.
• Seek advice from dedicated tenant support services (see below).

Official Support Services for Harassed Tenants in Wales

Multiple trusted bodies in Wales offer free, impartial support to tenants who are being harassed. You may contact:

• Rent Smart Wales: They license landlords and agents in Wales. Report an unlicensed landlord or concerns about professionalism at Rent Smart Wales.
• Citizens Advice Cymru: Offers confidential advice and helps you understand your rights on Citizens Advice Wales.
• Your Local Council: The Environmental Health or Housing Enforcement teams can formally investigate landlord harassment and, if needed, take action. Contact details can be found through the Find Your Local Council service.
• Police: For threats, violence, or repeated disturbances, contact the police using 101 for non-emergencies or 999 if in immediate danger.

How to Make a Formal Complaint or Take Legal Action

If informal resolution fails, you can escalate matters through official forms and legal channels. The main tribunal handling tenancy disputes in Wales is the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.^[2] This independent body can decide on cases of illegal eviction, harassment, and related matters.

Key Official Forms

• Form RHW6: Application Relating to Harassment or Unlawful Eviction
  Use this form if you wish to ask the tribunal to decide whether your landlord has unlawfully harassed or evicted you. For example, if your landlord has changed your locks or is making your home uninhabitable, this is the form to use.
  Download RHW6 and related forms (Residential Property Tribunal Wales)
• Welsh Government Complaint Forms
  Some councils use their own web-based forms for tenants to report harassment or illegal eviction. Check your council’s website via the Find Your Local Council Tool for direct links and instructions.

Understanding the Legislation: Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

This Act is the core law for renters in Wales, setting out your right to live free from landlord harassment or illegal eviction. You can read the full law at the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 website.^[1]

It’s also supported by other statutes such as the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, which makes it a criminal offence for a landlord to unlawfully evict or harass a tenant.^[3]

FAQ

1. What is considered harassment by a landlord in Wales?
   Harassment can include repeated visits without notice, threats, cutting off services, refusing repairs, or trying to force you out without a court order.
2. Who do I contact first if I’m being harassed?
   Start by contacting your local council’s housing department or Citizens Advice Cymru for immediate guidance. In urgent situations, call the police.
3. Can I claim compensation if I’ve been harassed or illegally evicted?
   Yes, you may ask the tribunal for compensation by filing the correct application (like Form RHW6). Legal aid may be available to help with tribunal cases.
4. Is there a time limit for reporting harassment?
   You should act as soon as possible, as there may be limits for bringing cases to the tribunal or police.
5. Do I need legal representation to use the tribunal?
   No, you can represent yourself. Advisory bodies like Citizens Advice Cymru can offer free support and assistance with forms.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• If you feel harassed in your tenancy, document everything and seek help promptly.
• Wales offers official support services—don’t hesitate to use them or submit a formal complaint.
• The law is on your side; tenants are protected under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Knowing your rights—and using the right channels—can make a big difference when facing harassment.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rent Smart Wales – landlord/agent registration and complaints
• Citizens Advice Cymru – confidential legal advice
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – resolve tenancy disputes
• Find Your Local Council
• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – full legislation text

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales (Official site)
3. Protection from Eviction Act 1977

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