Understanding Tenancy Types for Renters in Wales

If you rent your home in Wales, it's essential to understand what type of tenancy or occupation contract you have. Since December 2022, Wales has had its own system for renting homes, due to the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. This affects your rights, how your contract works, and what you can do if there’s a problem.

What Are the Main Tenancy Types in Wales?

Under Welsh law today, the vast majority of private and social renters have what's now called an occupation contract. A few older types of tenancies may still exist, but most renting agreements were converted in December 2022 due to new legislation. Here is an overview of what this means for you as a renter in Wales.

Standard Occupation Contract

This is the main renting arrangement in Wales, replacing most "assured shorthold tenancies" in the private sector. Key features:

• Used mainly by private landlords.
• Can be "fixed term" (set period) or "periodic" (rolling weekly or monthly basis).
• Offers rights around notice periods, repairs, and protection from unfair eviction.

Learn more about standard contracts and how they work at the official Welsh Government site.

Secure Occupation Contract

This replaced most "secure tenancies" and "assured tenancies" with councils or housing associations. Highlights include:

• More long-term stability and stronger protection from eviction.
• Primarily used by community landlords and social housing providers.
• Notice rules are usually stricter and more protective for renters.

Other Types of Tenancy Agreements

• Introductory Occupation Contract: Often given to new social housing tenants for a trial period, usually 12 months. Easier for the landlord to end if there are serious problems.
• Supported Standard Contract: Used for tenants in supported accommodation, such as housing for those with extra care needs.
• Legacy Tenancies: If you started your tenancy before 1 December 2022 and haven't signed a new agreement, you may have had your contract 'converted' to a new occupation contract, but the conversion process protects key rights you already had.

It’s important to check which form of contract you have, since your rights and responsibilities can differ. If you’re unsure, ask your landlord or seek advice from a tenant support organisation.

Key Forms Renters in Wales Should Know

Below are some official documents you might come across as a renter. These forms are designed to protect your rights or provide clarity in certain situations:

• RHW2: Notice to End an Occupation Contract
  When and how used: Your landlord must use this official form to give notice if they want to end your occupation contract using "no fault" grounds (such as after a fixed-term has ended). For example, if your landlord wishes to end a standard occupation contract with at least six months’ notice, they must serve you the RHW2 form.
  Find the RHW2 Notice form here.
• Written Statement of the Occupation Contract
  When and how used: Your landlord must supply a written statement of your contract terms within 14 days of moving in. This sets out your rights and duties.
  See model written statements and requirements.
• Rent Variation Notice
  When and how used: Landlords can only increase your rent if they give at least two months’ notice using this official format. For instance, if your landlord wants to raise your rent, they must serve you a rent variation notice as required under the Act.
  Official guidance on rent increase notices.

Who Handles Tenancy Disputes and Evictions in Wales?

The Residential Property Tribunal for Wales is the main official body handling most disputes about rented homes, including contract disagreements or deposit issues. You may also encounter County Courts for possession (eviction) proceedings.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

The law covering all these tenancy types and rights in Wales is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. It sets out what landlords and renters can and cannot do, how contracts are created, and your protections as a tenant.

1. What should I do if I’m unsure what type of tenancy or occupation contract I have?
   If you’re not certain which tenancy or occupation contract applies to you, ask your landlord for your written statement. By law, all landlords in Wales must provide this document, clearly setting out the terms and contract type. If you don’t receive a written statement, you can seek help from Shelter Cymru or contact your local council for advice.
2. How much notice must my landlord give me to end my tenancy?
   For most standard occupation contracts, your landlord must give at least six months’ notice (using the correct RHW2 form) if they want to evict you without specific grounds. If there are serious problems like rent arrears or antisocial behaviour, they may be able to apply for a quicker eviction — but strict rules and legal processes must be followed.
3. What official forms should I expect when my landlord ends my contract?
   You should receive a RHW2 Notice (or the relevant notice for your situation) in writing. Make sure it includes all required details, and that you’re given the correct notice period. If you think the notice is invalid or incorrect, get free advice as soon as possible.
4. Can my landlord increase the rent whenever they want?
   No. For most occupation contracts, the landlord must give at least two months’ written notice on the proper form. Rent increases can generally only be made once per year unless otherwise agreed. See official government rent increase guidance for more details.
5. Where can I go for help if there’s a dispute or I face eviction?
   You can contact the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales for disputes over deposits, contract terms, or other issues. For urgent advice, Shelter Cymru and Citizens Advice can help you understand your rights or connect you with more support.

Conclusion: Your Tenancy Rights in Wales - Key Takeaways

• The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 has changed most tenancies to "occupation contracts," either standard or secure.
• You have rights about notice periods, written contracts, and rent increases—be sure you receive all official documents.
• Government bodies and free advice services can help if you need support or believe your rights are at risk.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Renting Homes – official guides and legislation.
• Shelter Cymru – free, local advice for all renters in Wales.
• Citizens Advice Cymru – legal help for housing and tenancy problems.
• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – official dispute resolution.
• Information for Contract-Holders – detailed government guidance.

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – see the full legislation
2. Occupation contracts: Government overview for Wales
3. RHW2 Notice: Ending a contract (Welsh Government)
4. Guidance on written statements (Welsh Government)
5. Residential Property Tribunal for Wales official site

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