What Renters Should Expect on Move-In Day in Wales

Moving into a new rental property in Wales is an exciting step, but it also brings important legal checks and practical tasks. Understanding what happens on move-in day helps renters protect their interests, settle in smoothly, and know what to expect under Welsh law.

What Happens on Move-In Day?

Your move-in day is when you officially begin living in your new rental home. Several key steps and legal requirements apply on this day under Welsh tenancy law:

• Receiving the keys: You should only be given keys when your tenancy agreement officially starts.
• Signing the occupation contract: In Wales, you will usually sign an "occupation contract" (rather than a standard tenancy agreement as in England).
• Inventory and condition report: An inventory or condition report should be provided. You can request one if your landlord has not prepared it.
• Deposit and prescribed information: If you paid a deposit, your landlord must protect it in an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme and provide you with required details.
• Safety certificates: Your landlord must give you up-to-date gas safety, electrical safety, and Energy Performance Certificates.
• Welcome pack: Landlords in Wales must provide a written statement of the occupation contract and a copy of the "occupation pack" explaining your rights and responsibilities.

Being aware of these steps helps to ensure your rights are protected from the very beginning.

Legal Rights and Required Documents for Renters

Welsh law protects renters through specific requirements. Your landlord or letting agent should provide certain documents on or before move-in day. Always check the following:

• Written Statement of Occupation Contract: Your landlord must provide a written summary of your occupation contract within 14 days of the contract starting. See the official Welsh Government model contracts.
• Deposit Protection Certificate: If you pay a deposit, the landlord must protect it in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and give you a certificate with scheme details. Learn more and find official schemes here.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): You must be given an EPC for the property. Check EPC rules here.
• Gas Safety Certificate (CP12): Provided if there are gas appliances. View official Welsh guidance on gas safety.
• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Should be given for all rented homes. See tenant rights on electrical safety.
• Occupation Pack: A plain-English guide to your rights under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, issued by the landlord – sometimes called a ‘welcome pack’.

If you haven’t been given any of these, you are entitled to request them from your landlord or agent.

Important Official Forms on Move-In

• Written Statement Request Form (official template):
  If your landlord has not provided a written statement within 14 days, use this form to request it. For example, if you move in and after two weeks still have nothing in writing, fill in and send the form to your landlord.
• Deposit Scheme Certificate (no standard number – provided by your landlord’s deposit scheme):
  This is the certificate confirming your deposit is protected. Ask your landlord to provide it from the scheme they use (e.g., DPS, mydeposits, TDS).

The key legal body responsible for most housing disputes in Wales is the Residential Property Tribunal Wales, which handles various issues under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Your Occupation Contract and the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

Since December 2022, most renters in Wales are no longer "tenants" but "contract-holders" under an "occupation contract". This change came with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.¹ Your contract outlines your rights, responsibilities, length of notice required, and more. If you are unsure what type of contract you have or your rights, see the Welsh Government's guidance for contract-holders.

Move-In Day: Key Action Steps for Renters

• Inspect the property and take date-stamped photos of any existing damage.
• Check all safety certificates and documentation are supplied—ask immediately if anything is missing.
• Use the Request Written Statement Form if you have not received your written contract on time.
• Register with relevant utilities (gas/electricity/water) and note meter readings for your records.

• Update your council tax and electoral register details with your new address.

Taking these steps early helps prevent misunderstandings later.

FAQ: Move-In Day for Renters in Wales

1. What if my landlord does not give me a written statement of my occupation contract?
   You can submit the Request Written Statement Form and, if your landlord still fails to comply, you may be able to claim compensation or seek help from the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.
2. How do I know if my deposit is protected?
   Your landlord must give you details of the scheme (such as DPS, mydeposits, or TDS) within 30 days of receiving your deposit. If they do not, you can check directly with the scheme and request your official certificate.
3. Which safety certificates must be provided when I move in?
   You should receive a valid Gas Safety Certificate (for properties with gas), an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
4. What can I do if there are problems with the property’s condition on move-in day?
   Report all issues in writing to your landlord immediately. Take photos as evidence, and if not resolved, seek advice from your local council or Shelter Cymru.
5. Who do I contact if I have a legal dispute or my landlord is not following the law?
   The Residential Property Tribunal Wales can handle many disputes. You may also contact your local council housing team or advice bodies like Shelter Cymru.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Welsh Renters

• Check you receive all required legal documents and certificates on your move-in day.
• If anything is missing, use official forms and know where to seek support.
• Knowing your rights under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 helps you start your tenancy on strong legal ground.

Start your tenancy by being proactive, well-informed, and organised to ensure a smooth experience in your new Welsh home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Welsh Government: Renting Homes Guidance for Contract-Holders
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales: For legal disputes and advice
• Shelter Cymru: Free housing advice and support
• UK Government: Renting Privately
• Contact your local council’s housing team for help with emergencies or enforcement

1. See Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016