Understanding Rent Due Dates and Your Rights in Wales

Paying rent on time is a key part of your tenancy agreement in Wales. Knowing your rights around when rent is due, what happens if it's late, and how landlords can (or cannot) alter your due date helps you stay secure in your home. This guide explains your protections under Welsh law, what to expect if your landlord tries to change your rent day, and how to handle common rent payment issues.

What Determines Your Rent Due Date?

Your rent due date is usually set in your written occupation contract (the legal name for tenancy agreements in Wales). This date should be clear in your contract from the start of your rental. Most rent is paid monthly, but it can also be weekly or on another agreed schedule.

• Your due date must be agreed by you and your landlord and appear in your occupation contract.
• If you don’t have a written contract, the due date defaults to when you moved in or when payments have regularly taken place.

The main law covering these rules is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and 2021.¹

Can a Landlord Change Your Rent Due Date?

Landlords in Wales cannot unilaterally change your rent due date without your agreement. Any proposed change must be mutually agreed and, usually, must be reflected in a written statement modifying your occupation contract.

• If your landlord wishes to change the due date, they should provide you with written notice and ask for your agreement.
• You do not have to accept the change. If you refuse, the terms of your existing contract remain.

If your landlord tries to enforce a new due date without your consent or threatens you with eviction for not agreeing, you can seek support (see "Need Help? Resources for Renters" below).

What Happens If You Pay Rent Late?

If you pay rent late, you risk being in arrears (behind on your rent). Your landlord may send you a reminder or a notice about missed payments. However, they must follow legal steps before taking action, such as seeking eviction or charging late fees (which must be in your contract).

• You cannot be charged unfair or hidden fees for late rent unless specified in your contract and allowed by law.
• If you fall behind, contact your landlord and try to agree on a repayment plan.
• If threatened with eviction, the landlord must give you a formal written notice (for most contracts this is called a "Section 173" notice in Wales).

The official form that landlords in Wales may use to end a standard occupation contract is the Section 173 Notice (Form RHW20). This must be used when a landlord is giving at least six months' notice (for contracts begun after 1 December 2022):

• Section 173 Notice (Form RHW20) – Gov.Wales
• When and how to use: If your landlord is ending your contract due to rent arrears or another reason permitted by law, you’ll receive this notice. You have the right to challenge it at the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.²

Can Your Rent Due Date Be Changed Because of Bank Holidays?

If your rent due date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, you’re usually still expected to pay on time. However, if banking delays make this impossible, pay on the next working day and inform your landlord in writing. Welsh law expects flexibility in good faith, but it's wise to keep a record.

If You Disagree With a Proposed Change – How To Challenge It

If your landlord tries to change the due date without your consent or you disagree with a rent increase linked to a changed due date, you have the right to challenge it.

• First, respond to your landlord in writing stating your objection.
• If they persist, you may apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales to resolve the dispute.²
• You can find forms and processes for initiating a dispute on the Tribunal's official forms page (forms vary depending on issue).

Summary: Rent Due Dates in Wales

Welsh law offers strong protections for renters regarding rent payments and due dates. Always check your contract, keep written records, and use official complaint and support channels if disputes arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord move my rent due date at short notice?
   No. Your rent due date is part of your original occupation contract and can only be changed if you agree in writing. Any changes require your documented consent.
2. What if I accidentally pay rent a day late because of a bank holiday?
   Welsh law expects reasonable flexibility. Notify your landlord of the delay and make the payment on the next working day. Keep records of your communication.
3. Can I be charged a fee for late rent?
   Only if such a fee is clearly outlined in your occupation contract and is in line with Welsh law. Unreasonable or hidden charges are not allowed.
4. Which tribunal handles rent disputes in Wales?
   The Residential Property Tribunal Wales manages rent disputes and tenancy disagreements in Wales.
5. Am I protected from eviction if I miss one rent payment?
   Your landlord must follow a legal process, including formal notice (e.g., Section 173) and reasonable time for you to resolve the issue. Immediate eviction is not permitted.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Your rent due date must be set by your contract and can’t be changed without your agreement.
• If you pay rent late, your landlord must follow legal steps before taking further action, such as eviction.
• For any dispute, use the Residential Property Tribunal Wales or official government resources for help.

Understanding your rights can prevent misunderstandings and help you deal confidently with any rent due date issues in Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – for rent, contract, and eviction disputes
• Welsh Government Renting Homes guidance for tenants
• Shelter Cymru: Free advice for renters in Wales

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and 2021
2. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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