Wales Renters: Your Rights During Property Renovations

Renovations by your landlord can be disruptive, but tenants in Wales have legal rights and protections when it comes to building works, maintenance, and improvements. Understanding these safeguards will help you navigate any proposed changes to your home with confidence.

Your Rights When Landlords Renovate Rented Homes in Wales

If your landlord wants to carry out renovations, building work, or significant repairs, there are specific legal procedures and notice periods they must follow under Welsh law. These rules exist to protect tenants from unnecessary inconvenience or unfair disruption.

What Counts as a Renovation?

Renovations can include:

• Major repairs (such as fixing structural problems)
• Redecorating or updating interiors
• Installing new kitchens, bathrooms, or windows
• Improvements that involve substantial changes or building work

Small-scale repairs (like fixing a faulty light or leaking tap) follow different rules and usually require less notice.

Required Notice for Renovation Works

Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours' written notice before entering to inspect or carry out repairs, unless it’s an emergency. For major renovations, longer notice is generally expected to allow you to prepare or raise concerns. Your tenancy agreement might specify longer periods or procedures, so always check your contract.

If the renovations will make your home uninhabitable (for example, removing the kitchen or bathroom), your landlord may need to offer alternative accommodation or adjust your rent.

Your Right to Quiet Enjoyment

Tenants are entitled to live in their home without unnecessary disturbance. Even if renovations are needed, your landlord should:

• Limit access to reasonable times (usually between 8am and 8pm)
• Keep you informed about the schedule and duration of works
• Minimise mess, noise, and disruption
• Respect your belongings and privacy

Seeking Permission and Making Changes Yourself

Tenants in Wales generally require written permission from their landlord before carrying out any renovations or improvements themselves. Making substantial changes without consent may breach your tenancy agreement or result in charges when you move out.

• Always request landlord approval in writing.
• Keep a copy of their reply and any agreements made.

Dealing with Safety and Housing Standards

Landlords must meet certain standards for health and safety, known as the Housing Quality Standards in Wales. Major renovations sometimes occur to bring a property up to legal requirements, such as fixing damp or upgrading fire safety.

If your home is unsafe or in poor condition and your landlord refuses to carry out required renovations, you can complain to your local council housing department or seek help from Rent Smart Wales.

How to Challenge Renovations or File a Complaint

If you believe renovation works are unnecessary, poorly managed, or have not followed the correct notice procedures, you can:

• Raise your concerns in writing with your landlord or letting agent.
• Contact your local council’s housing enforcement team if the works breach safety or legal standards.
• Apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales to challenge certain notices or decisions (for example, if you’re asked to move out due to renovations).

Key Official Forms for Renters

• RHW23 – Applying to the Residential Property Tribunal: Use this form if you wish to dispute a notice to end your tenancy for renovation purposes. Download the RHW23 application form.
  Example: If you receive a possession notice because your landlord claims renovations require the property to be vacant, you can use this form to challenge it at the tribunal.
• Local Authority Complaint Form: Exact forms differ by council, but most offer online and paper forms to report unsafe living conditions or unresolved repairs. Start at your local council’s website and search for ‘housing standards’ or ‘private rented complaints’.

Relevant Legislation and Where to Get Help

The main law covering tenants’ rights and housing standards in Wales is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016¹. This Act sets out your rights to notice, repairs, and peaceful enjoyment of your home.

1. Can my landlord make me move out for renovations?
   Landlords can only end your tenancy for major renovations in limited circumstances, usually with at least 6 months’ notice. You have the right to challenge such notices at the tribunal if you think they’re not justified.
2. What happens if renovations make my home unsafe or unfit to live in?
   If this happens, your landlord may be required to offer you alternative accommodation or reduce your rent. Contact your local council if your home becomes uninhabitable.
3. Do I have to let builders or contractors in whenever the landlord asks?
   No, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice (except emergencies), and visits should be at a reasonable time.
4. Can I make improvements to my home as a tenant?
   Not without your landlord’s written permission. Making changes without consent may put your deposit at risk or break your agreement.
5. How do I get help if my landlord ignores housing standards?
   Report safety or maintenance issues to your local council or Rent Smart Wales. If needed, the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales handles disputes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters in Wales

• You have the right to proper notice before any renovations begin.
• Major works should not make your home unlivable—seek support if they do.
• Always request permission for your own improvements in writing.
• Use official channels if you feel your rights are being ignored or breached.

Knowing your rights around renovations helps you maintain a safe and comfortable home during any works.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government: Renting Homes Guidance
• Rent Smart Wales – Tenant Help
• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales
• Find Your Local Council (for complaints or housing enforcement)

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016: Read the full legislation

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