What to Do If You Can’t Afford Rent in Wales

If you’re renting in Wales and worried about missing rent payments, you are not alone. Many renters face sudden financial challenges and worry about eviction or falling into debt. Understanding your rights and knowing what help is available can make a real difference. This guide explains legal protections under Welsh law, steps to take if you can’t pay your rent, and how to seek financial or legal support.

Understanding Your Rights When You Can’t Afford Rent

Renters in Wales have specific protections under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. If you begin to struggle with rent payments, the law provides clear procedures landlords must follow before any eviction can take place.¹

• Your landlord cannot evict you without serving the correct notice period—in most cases, this is a minimum of 6 months for standard occupation contracts for rent arrears accrued after 1 December 2022.
• Any threat or attempt to remove you without a court order is illegal.
• You cannot be forced out immediately for missing a single payment unless you have serious rent arrears (for example, eight weeks overdue for some contract types).

Acting early and getting informed helps prevent the situation from worsening and may stop eviction entirely.

Steps to Take If You Can’t Pay Your Rent

Here are workable steps to help you manage rent arrears and stay in your home:

• Contact your landlord: Let them know as soon as possible. They might agree to a payment plan or offer extra time.
• Check your benefits: You may be eligible for Housing Benefit, Universal Credit housing support, or Discretionary Housing Payments from your local council. Visit government benefits calculators to check entitlements.
• Budget your finances: Prioritise rent and essential bills, and seek debt advice from a local Citizens Advice office.
• Keep records: Save all written communication with your landlord and copies of payments.

What Happens If You Fall Into Rent Arrears?

If you owe rent, your landlord may serve you with a Notice of Seeking Possession (officially called a ‘Notice seeking possession for serious rent arrears’). This must be in writing and comply with the legal notice periods under Welsh law.

• If your rent arrears reach eight weeks or more, your landlord can apply to the county court for possession.
• Once the notice expires, a landlord must get a court order before you can be made to leave your home.
• You should receive clear written information about why your landlord is taking action and what you can do.

Relevant Official Forms for Rent Arrears and Eviction

• Notice Seeking Possession Under Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
  Form Name: Notice Seeking Possession (no form number)
  When used: Landlords must serve this written notice if they wish to seek possession due to rent arrears. For example, if you have missed multiple payments, your landlord will send you this notice before going to court.
  Where to find: Official Welsh Government Renting Homes Forms
• Form N11R – Defence Form (for Rent Arrears Possession Proceedings)
  When used: If your landlord applies to the court for your eviction, you can use this form to tell your side of the story. For example, you might explain your circumstances or request more time to pay.
  Where to find: Official Form N11R: Defence form for rent arrears possession claims

Respond promptly to any notice or court paperwork—this can often help you keep your home.

Disputes and Tribunals: Where to Get a Fair Hearing

If you and your landlord cannot agree or if you believe your landlord’s actions are unlawful, you may need to get help from a tribunal or court.

• Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre is the main court handling residential tenancy possession cases in Wales. All possession applications (evictions) for rent arrears are made here or to your local county court.
• For raising housing complaints about landlords or letting agents, contact Public Services Ombudsman for Wales.

This process ensures both renters and landlords have the opportunity to present evidence and seek a fair decision under Welsh tenancy law.

FAQ: Rent Payment Problems in Wales

1. Can my landlord evict me right away if I miss a rent payment in Wales?
   No. Your landlord must follow a legal process and serve you the correct written notice with at least 6 months’ notice (unless your arrears are very serious). They cannot evict you without a possession order from the court.
2. What is the official defence form if my landlord asks a court for possession?
   You should use Form N11R – Defence Form to explain your situation or propose repayment. Contact your local advice centre for help completing it.
3. Am I eligible for financial help if I can’t pay my rent?
   You may be able to claim Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element), and your local council may offer Discretionary Housing Payments.
4. Who should I contact if I am threatened with eviction or illegal lock-out?
   If you are at immediate risk, contact your local council’s housing team or Shelter Cymru for urgent help. Illegal eviction is a criminal offence.
5. What legislation protects Welsh renters from unfair eviction?
   The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 is the main law governing tenancies and eviction procedures in Wales.

Key Takeaways for Renters Who Can’t Afford Rent in Wales

• Landlords cannot evict you in Wales without following legal notice requirements and getting a court order.
• Act quickly—contact your landlord, seek benefit advice, and respond to all notices or court papers.
• Support services and fair hearings are available; you are not alone in facing rent arrears.

Seeking help early can often prevent eviction or further financial problems. Know your rights—and when to reach out for advice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Housing Help and Advice
• Shelter Cymru: Free Advice for Renters
• Apply for Housing Benefit
• Jobcentre Plus: Universal Credit Support
• Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre
• Public Services Ombudsman for Wales

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – Official legislation
2. Welsh Government: Renting Homes Model Written Statements & Forms
3. Form N11R: Defence Form For Rent Arrears Possession Claims
4. Shelter Cymru: Tenant Advice
5. Official Benefits Calculators (gov.uk)

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