Understanding Tenant Rights in Shared Homes in Wales

Living in a shared home in Wales offers community and convenience but also brings unique rights and responsibilities for tenants. Whether you’re renting a room in a house or sharing with multiple people, knowing your legal protections is vital. This guide explains the key rights, important forms, and where to get help if issues arise.

Your Rights as a Renter in a Shared Home in Wales

From December 2022, renting in Wales is governed by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016^[1]. Most shared houses are classed as shared contract-holder arrangements rather than traditional tenancies. Your rights often depend on the type of agreement and the number of tenants.

• Written contract: You must be given a written occupation contract by your landlord, outlining terms, notices, and house rules.
• Security of tenure: Your landlord can’t evict you without following correct legal steps.
• Deposit protection: All deposits must be placed in a government-approved scheme, such as Deposit Protection Service.
• Property standards: The home should be safe and properly maintained, including shared areas.
• Notice periods: Your landlord must provide the correct notice before asking you to leave, usually at least six months except in special cases.

If your landlord doesn’t meet these duties, you have the right to challenge them and seek support.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Living Standards

Your landlord is responsible for keeping all shared areas in good repair, gas and electrical safety, and ensuring fire safety standards are met. If repairs aren’t carried out:

• Report the issue in writing to your landlord.
• If there’s no response, contact your local council's housing team.
• You can also apply for help from Rent Smart Wales or, in urgent cases, the Residential Property Tribunal Wales^[2].

Eviction and Notice: What to Expect

Your landlord must follow a legal process to ask you to move out. Most renters in shared homes have a ‘standard occupation contract’. The usual notice required is at least six months using a prescribed form. If there’s a breach of contract (like rent arrears or anti-social behaviour), the notice period may be shorter.

• If you receive a ‘Notice to End Occupation Contract’ (Form RHW23), check it for legal errors and dates. You can find the official RHW23 form here and its guidance.
• You can challenge an incorrect notice at the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Official Forms Relevant to Shared Home Tenants

• RHW16: Written Statement of Occupation Contract
  When used: Your landlord must provide this statement within 14 days after you move in or request it. Access the RHW16 here.
  Example: If your landlord has not given you your contract, you have the right to request one using this template.
• RHW23: Notice to End Standard Occupation Contract
  When used: Used by landlords to serve notice to end the occupation contract. View the RHW23 form.
  Example: If you receive this, it means your landlord is asking you to leave; verify that all details are correct.
• RHW20: Notice to Vary Terms of Contract
  When used: Used when a landlord wishes to change contract terms, such as rent.
  See the official RHW20 here.
  Example: If your landlord wants to increase your rent, they must use this form and give you at least two months’ notice.

Always keep copies of any forms or notices you send or receive, and seek support if unsure of their meaning.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase in Wales

If your landlord uses the RHW20 to increase your rent, you have rights to challenge an unfair rise:

• Your landlord must give at least two months’ written notice before the increase begins.
• If you think the increase is unfair, you can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for a review.
• Submit your application before the new rent takes effect, ideally using their official rent determination application form.

If you’re struggling to pay or facing sudden large rent increases, act quickly. Contact a renters' advice service or your local council’s housing team.

Which tribunal deals with rental disputes in Wales?

Residential tenancy disputes in Wales – including eviction challenges, rent increases, or repairs – are overseen by the Residential Property Tribunal Wales. You can start a claim or find guidance on their website.^[2]

FAQ

1. What notice does my landlord need to give me to end my contract?
   In most cases, landlords must give at least six months’ written notice using the prescribed RHW23 form. Shorter notice is only allowed for serious contract breaches or anti-social behaviour. Always check your contract for any specific terms.
2. How do I know if I live in an HMO in Wales?
   If your home is shared by three or more unrelated people who share facilities like a bathroom or kitchen, it may be an HMO. HMOs must be licensed by the local council to ensure safety and standards.
3. Can my landlord increase my rent at any time?
   No. Rent can only be increased with at least two months’ written notice on the RHW20 form. If you believe the increase is excessive, you can challenge it at the Residential Property Tribunal Wales before it takes effect.
4. What should I do if essential repairs aren’t being carried out?
   Put your request in writing to your landlord first. If there’s no action, contact the council’s environmental health team or get free advice via Rent Smart Wales.
5. Is my deposit protected?
   Yes. All deposits must be placed in a government-approved scheme. Your landlord should give you details within 30 days of you paying the deposit.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters in Shared Homes in Wales

• Welsh law gives strong protections for those sharing homes, but knowing the correct forms and procedures is essential.
• Your landlord must provide proper notice and use official forms for rent increases, contract changes, and eviction.
• If you’re facing issues, there are official channels and support services available to help renters resolve problems fairly.

Staying informed about your rights and keeping documentation can help you resolve most shared housing issues with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Rent Smart Wales – Tenant Guidance and Support
• UK Government Information for Private Renters
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Dispute Resolution
• Shelter Cymru – Free Housing Advice
• Contact your local council housing team for urgent repairs or safety issues.

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1. ^[1] See the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 for full legal details.
2. ^[2] The Residential Property Tribunal Wales oversees most tenancy disputes in Wales.

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