Ways Renters Can Prevent Homelessness in Wales

If you’re renting a home in Wales and are worried about losing your tenancy—perhaps due to eviction, rent arrears, or landlord disputes—you’re not alone. The good news is that the law in Wales offers protections and services to help you avoid homelessness. This guide explains your options, official processes, and support available in Wales to help you stay secure in your home.

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter in Wales

Renters in Wales have key legal protections under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 and the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016^[1]. These laws set standards for evictions, notice periods, and homelessness prevention services from local councils. To act early is essential.

What To Do If You’re At Risk of Losing Your Home

If you’re facing eviction, struggling with rent increases, or have received a notice from your landlord, you can—and should—take action immediately. The earlier you act, the more options you have to avoid homelessness.

Contact Your Local Council’s Homelessness Service

• Every council in Wales must help you if you’re threatened with homelessness within 56 days or already homeless.
• Their duties include assessing your situation and creating a “Personal Housing Plan” tailored to you.
• Find your local service through the Welsh Government website.

Official Forms You May Use

• Homelessness Application (Personal Housing Plan): When you approach your local council, they will help you fill out an assessment and create a Personal Housing Plan rather than a single form. This plan identifies what help you need to prevent or relieve homelessness. For detailed guidance, see the Welsh Government’s official guide for preventing homelessness.
• Notice to End a Contract (RHW16): If your landlord wants you to leave, they’ll likely serve a RHW16 notice. This form starts the eviction process, but you do not have to leave immediately—legal notice periods apply. Read more about this on the ending renting homes contracts guide.
• Rent Tribunal Wales (Residential Property Tribunal Wales): If you believe your landlord’s actions (like a rent increase or eviction notice) are unfair or unlawful, you can challenge them via the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

The Personal Housing Plan is a collaborative document you make with your council—there’s no separate form number, but it’s a vital part of your rights as a Welsh renter.

Steps You Can Take Right Now to Prevent Homelessness

Taking proactive steps—especially when you first get a notice or fall behind on rent—can make a real difference. Don't wait until it's too late.

• Contact your landlord or letting agent: Explain your situation. Many are willing to discuss payment plans or alternative arrangements if you communicate early.
• Apply for financial help: You may qualify for Universal Credit housing costs, Discretionary Housing Payments, or Council Tax reductions.
• Get free legal advice: Specialist services like Shelter Cymru can support you to understand your rights and next steps.
• Collect your paperwork: Keep copies of all communications, notices, your tenancy agreement, and rent records.

If You’re Facing Eviction: Know the Legal Process

Eviction rules in Wales are set out under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. Landlords must:

• Follow correct notice procedures (such as RHW16 for standard contract terminations).
• Give you the legal minimum notice period (usually 6 months for no-fault evictions, or 1 month for anti-social behaviour).
• Apply to court to enforce an eviction if you do not leave—bailiffs can only remove you after a court order.

For in-depth guidance, see the Ending renting homes contracts: guidance for landlords and tenants.

Challenging a Rent Increase or Eviction Notice

• If you think your rent increase is unfair or your eviction notice is invalid, you can challenge it at the Residential Property Tribunal Wales (the tribunal that decides such cases in Wales).
• To do this, complete the relevant application from the tribunal’s forms page. For rent issues, you may use their "Application about Rent under an Occupation Contract." Find details here.

What If You Become Homeless?

If eviction happens or you need to leave immediately, your council still has a duty to help. This may include temporary housing, deposit help, and support to move into a new home. Don’t hesitate to make a homeless application—you will not be turned away due to lack of paperwork or immigration status in an emergency. Find out more in the official homelessness guidance by Welsh Government.

FAQ: Preventing Homelessness in Wales

1. What should I do first if I get an eviction notice?
   Contact your local council’s homelessness service and ask for help. Keep records of all communication with your landlord. Acting early can open up more options.
2. Do I have to leave as soon as my landlord gives me a notice?
   No. Your landlord must follow legal notice periods and a court process. You are not required to leave until a court order asks you to.
3. Can I get help if I’m in rent arrears?
   Yes. Councils offer advice and may help you access emergency support or negotiate repayment plans. You might also be eligible for Discretionary Housing Payments.
4. What if I have children—will I get priority for council help?
   Families with children are given priority need for emergency accommodation under Welsh law. The council must help you find safe accommodation.
5. Who should I contact for free housing advice in Wales?
   Contact Shelter Cymru, Citizens Advice, or your local council’s housing options team for free, confidential advice.

Summary: Steps to Avoid Homelessness in Wales

• Contact your local council and get your Personal Housing Plan as soon as you’re at risk.
• Talk to your landlord and seek financial or legal support straight away.
• Use the Welsh tribunal if you need to challenge eviction or rent increases.

Acting fast gives you the best chance to stay in your home and protect your rights as a renter in Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Homelessness Support – Official guidance & help.
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – For challenging evictions or rent increases.
• Shelter Cymru – Free housing advice and advocacy.
• Find your local council homelessness service.
• Citizens Advice Wales: Housing – General advice and support.

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Housing (Wales) Act 2014

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