Understanding Starter Tenancies for Renters in Wales

If you’re renting social housing in Wales, you might be offered a starter tenancy when your tenancy begins. This page explains what a starter tenancy is, how it works in Wales, and what you need to know if you’re a new tenant under this arrangement.

What Is a Starter Tenancy?

A starter tenancy is a form of probationary agreement that many housing associations in Wales use for new tenants. It usually lasts for 12 months and acts as a trial period before you move to a more secure, long-term contract (known in Wales as a secure or assured tenancy, or from December 2022, a secure occupation contract under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 ^[1]).

• Purpose: To ensure new tenants can manage and follow tenancy rules.
• Typically lasts: 12 months, though it can be extended for another 6 months if there are concerns.
• After the starter period: If there have been no serious issues, it will usually convert automatically to a more secure contract.

How Does a Starter Tenancy Work in Wales?

Starter tenancies in Wales are most commonly used by housing associations, not by private landlords. Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, from 1 December 2022, social landlords issue ‘introductory standard contracts’ rather than traditional starter tenancies. The principles are very similar.

• You have most of the same rights and responsibilities as an established tenant, but fewer protections against eviction during the starter period.
• Your landlord can end your contract more easily during the introductory period, usually with at least two months’ notice.
• If you follow the agreement, you’ll gain more permanent tenancy rights after the starter period ends.

What Rights Do You Have?

While on an introductory standard contract (starter tenancy), you have these rights:

• To live in your home undisturbed (unless there’s a valid reason for your landlord to enter)
• To have repairs and maintenance carried out by your landlord
• To receive written notice of any eviction or changes to your contract
• To challenge unfair treatment or incorrect eviction procedure

However, you have less security of tenure than someone on a secure or periodic contract. Your landlord does not need to prove a reason for eviction within the introductory period, but there must be proper notice and procedures followed.

Eviction and Ending a Starter Tenancy

Your landlord can seek to end your starter tenancy during the probationary period by issuing a ‘notice seeking possession’ if they believe you have broken your agreement or if no reason is required under your specific contract type. You have the right to appeal or request a review before an eviction goes to court.

Official Form: Notice Seeking Possession

• Form Name/Number: Notice Requiring Possession (template varies; check with your landlord or housing association)
• When and how used: Used by the landlord to start possession proceedings in the introductory period. For example, if you accrue serious rent arrears, you may receive this notice. You should receive at least two months’ warning.
• Official guidance on ending occupation contracts (Welsh Government)

Which Tribunal Handles Tenancy Disputes in Wales?

Most disputes around eviction, rent, or contract issues go to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales or the county court for possession matters. The Residential Property Tribunal Wales deals with appeals and reviews for housing issues under Welsh law.

What Happens After the Starter Period Ends?

If there have been no breaches of the agreement and the landlord is satisfied, your tenancy will generally become a ‘secure’ standard occupation contract. This gives you stronger rights and greater protection from eviction. If there have been problems, your landlord may extend the starter period or seek to end your agreement.

Useful Action Steps

• Check your written occupation contract and keep it safe.
• If you receive any notice from your landlord, respond promptly and seek advice.
• If you believe you are being evicted unfairly, contact Shelter Cymru or Citizens Advice and request a formal review.

Starter tenancies give both you and the landlord a chance to settle into the arrangement, but it's crucial you know your rights and where to turn for help if there are problems.

FAQs About Starter Tenancies in Wales

1. Can my landlord evict me easily during a starter tenancy?
   Yes, your landlord can usually evict you with at least two months’ notice and does not always need to give a specific reason during the starter period. However, you must be given notice and have the right to request a review or appeal the decision.
2. Will my starter tenancy automatically become more secure?
   If you follow the rules and pay your rent, your starter tenancy (introductory standard contract) usually converts to a secure standard contract after 12 months.
3. What should I do if I receive a Notice Seeking Possession?
   Read the notice carefully, request a review in writing straight away, and seek advice from Shelter Cymru, Citizens Advice, or your local authority’s housing team.
4. Does a starter tenancy affect my right to repairs?
   No. You have the right to safe conditions and necessary repairs from your landlord, even while on a starter tenancy.
5. Which legislation covers starter tenancies in Wales?
   The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 sets out tenants’ and landlords’ rights and responsibilities for these types of contracts.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Welsh Renters

• Starter tenancies (introductory standard contracts) are a trial period for new social housing tenants in Wales.
• You have basic rights, but less protection against eviction until the contract becomes secure.
• Always read your contract closely and seek advice if you receive any legal notices or face eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government Renting Homes Guidance
• Shelter Cymru – Starter Tenancies Advice
• Citizens Advice Wales – Renting Guidance
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Official government guidance on ending occupation contracts
3. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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