Temporary heaters can feel like a quick fix in a chilly rented room, but they increase the risk of fire and can raise questions about who must act. This guidance explains what tenants in Wales should check before using portable heaters, what landlords must provide under landlord safety duties, and how to raise concerns with your landlord, local authority or the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)[2]. It uses plain language and practical examples so renters and tenants can spot hazards, collect evidence, and follow official complaint or application routes. If you are worried about an unsafe heater, this page tells you the forms, deadlines and contacts commonly used in Wales and the next practical steps.
Legal responsibilities
Landlords must keep the structure and exterior of the property in repair and ensure heating and electrical installations are safe under the law (see relevant legislation). Tenants must take reasonable care to use appliances safely and report faults promptly. The main Acts applying to residential tenancies for England and Wales include the Housing Act 1988[3] and the Rent Act 1977[4], which underpin notice and possession rules and many safety duties.
Fire risks of temporary heaters and how to reduce them
Portable heaters increase fire risk through contact with combustibles, overloaded sockets, and falls. Follow these practical measures before using a temporary heater.
- Place portable heating units on stable, level surfaces and follow manufacturer heating instructions.
- Keep flammable items, curtains and bedding at least one metre away to reduce fire risk.
- Do not leave a heater unattended or running overnight; turn it off before you sleep or leave the room.
- Prefer certified heaters with thermostats and automatic shut-off to limit hazards.
Official forms and when to use them (tenant-focused)
Knowing which official forms or routes to use helps when a heater or heating system is unsafe. Below are common official items tenants may use or see. Links to the official sources are listed in the footnotes so you can open the exact form or guidance.
Form 6A: Notice seeking possession (Section 21)
Form name and number: "Notice seeking possession (Section 21), Form 6A". When used: landlords use this prescribed notice to end an assured shorthold tenancy; it is not a tenant complaint form. Tenant-focused example: if a landlord serves a Section 21, keep copies and check whether the landlord followed legal requirements (e.g., provided certain safety certificates and deposit information) before you respond. See the official Form 6A for exact wording and timing.[1]
Applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
Form/name: application forms and guidance for the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). When used: tenants use tribunal procedures to request orders for repairs, rent reductions, or disputes about landlord duties. Tenant-focused example: if repeated written reports about a dangerous heater are ignored, you may apply to the Tribunal for an order requiring repairs or compensation; collect photos, messages and dates for your application.[2]
Local authority enforcement and complaints
Form/name: many local authorities accept complaints online or by phone under housing and environmental health powers. When used: use your local council to report immediate hazards (e.g., unsafe electrical connection, fire hazard from blocked exits). Tenant-focused example: report the heater as a potential housing health and safety issue so the council can inspect and, if necessary, serve remedial notices.
FAQ
- Can my landlord stop me using a portable heater?
- Generally landlords can set reasonable conditions in a tenancy agreement but cannot create rules that make the property unsafe; raise concerns with your landlord in writing and ask for safer heating if needed.
- What evidence helps if I take a case to the tribunal?
- Photos, dated messages to the landlord, receipts for temporary measures, and copies of any safety certificates or inspection reports are the strongest evidence to support your claim.
- How quickly should I act if a heater looks unsafe?
- Act immediately: stop using the heater if it sparks or smells of burning, record the issue, tell the landlord in writing, and contact your local authority if the risk is serious.
How-To
- Stop using the heater and move to a safe area, then call emergency services if there is an immediate fire risk.
- Take dated photos and short video evidence, and save any receipts or messages about the heater.
- Report the issue to your landlord in writing with the evidence and request prompt repairs or a safer heating alternative.
- If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, contact your local authority and consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for an order.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Smart Wales
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
- GOV.UK: Private renting – landlord responsibilities
