Understanding Homelessness in Wales: More Than Sleeping Rough

Many renters in Wales worry that they need to be sleeping on the street to qualify as homeless. In reality, the definition of homelessness is much broader. If you're facing eviction, sofa surfing, or living somewhere unsafe, you may be entitled to help from your local council even if you still have a roof over your head.

What Does 'Homeless' Actually Mean in Wales?

Under Welsh law, you do not have to be sleeping rough on the street to be considered homeless. The Housing (Wales) Act 2014 gives a clear, inclusive legal definition. You are legally homeless if:

• You have no accommodation you are entitled to occupy
• You cannot reasonably stay where you are because it's unsafe, overcrowded, or not suitable for your health
• You have somewhere to stay, but you can't live there (for example, if you are facing violence)
• You are staying temporarily with friends or family ('sofa surfing')

This means renters facing eviction, those who have to leave due to disrepair, or people living in insecure temporary arrangements may all qualify for help.

How Local Councils Assess Homelessness

When you apply for homelessness assistance, your local council will consider:

• Your current accommodation and whether it is reasonable to remain there
• Any eviction notices you have received (like a Section 21)
• Risks to your safety or health in your current housing
• Whether you have a legal right to occupy your accommodation

Examples of Homelessness (Even If You're Housed)

• A tenant given notice to leave (such as a Section 21 from a landlord)
• Staying with friends/family without a tenancy agreement and cannot stay long-term
• A flat with serious mould or repair issues making it unsafe to live there
• Living somewhere where you are at risk of violence or abuse

Official Forms Involved in Homelessness Applications

• Housing Options Assessment (No standard form number)
  When you approach your local council as homeless or at risk, you will fill out an application—often completed in-person or online on your council's website. The council must assess your case and provide you with a written personal housing plan.
  Example: If you receive an eviction notice, contact your council before your eviction date—they will guide you through the form and assessment process.
• Section 21 Notice (Form 6A England / Equivalent in Wales)
  In Wales, a ‘no fault notice’ to leave (commonly called a Section 21 in England) is simply a 'notice to end your occupation contract.' Your landlord must use the correct procedure to end your contract.
  See government guidance on ending an occupation contract.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Issues in Wales?

The Residential Property Tribunal Wales handles certain tenancy disputes, including issues around rent increases, evictions, and some housing condition matters.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation in Wales

Wales has its own rental laws. The most important ones are:

• Housing (Wales) Act 2014
• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

Action Steps if You're Homeless or at Risk in Wales

• Contact your local council immediately if you are facing eviction, unsafe housing, or cannot stay where you are
• Gather any eviction notices, tenancy agreements, or evidence of problems (photos, reports)
• Ask for a homelessness assessment—councils legally must assess and produce a plan
• If you’re unhappy with the council’s decision, you can ask for a review or appeal through the council’s procedure, and ultimately to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales

If you’re at risk—don’t wait until eviction day. Councils in Wales can help you as soon as you know you may lose your home.

FAQs about Homelessness and Support for Renters in Wales

1. Do I need to be sleeping rough to be considered homeless?
   No. In Wales, you are homeless if you have no accommodation you can reasonably occupy, including situations like eviction, sofa surfing, or unsafe housing.
2. What should I do if I’ve been given notice by my landlord?
   Contact your local council right away. Even before you must leave, the council can assess you for homelessness and help arrange alternative accommodation if needed.
3. Is the council legally required to help me?
   Yes. Under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, councils have a duty to assess your situation and offer tailored assistance if you’re homeless or threatened with homelessness.
4. Can I get support if I’m staying with friends temporarily?
   Yes. ‘Sofa surfing’ counts as homelessness. You do not need to be on the street to qualify for help.
5. What if I disagree with the council's decision on my case?
   You can request a review. If still dissatisfied, certain issues can be taken to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government: Homelessness Guidance
• Find your local council's housing department
• Shelter Cymru: Get Homelessness Advice
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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1. Housing (Wales) Act 2014
2. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
3. Welsh Government Homelessness Guidance
4. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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