When to Ask Your Council for Help With Property Disrepair in Wales

If you’re renting in Wales and struggling with repairs or poor housing conditions, it's essential to know when to involve your local council. Disrepair can threaten your comfort and safety, so don’t feel alone—help is available, and your rights are protected under Welsh law. This guide explains when and how to contact your council if your landlord hasn’t resolved disrepair problems, what to expect, and how official housing bodies and forms can assist you.

When Should Renters Contact the Council About Disrepair?

In most cases, renters must first give their landlord a reasonable opportunity to fix problems such as leaks, damp, faulty heating, or mould. However, if repairs aren't completed after you've reported them, or your home remains unsafe, your local council can step in. Councils have powers to enforce property standards and make sure your landlord carries out necessary work.

Common Examples of Disrepair Issues

• Persistent damp, mould, or condensation
• Broken heating or hot water
• Unsafe electrics or gas appliances
• Leaking roofs, windows, or plumbing
• Structural issues affecting safety

If issues like these threaten your health or safety, act quickly. Welsh councils can investigate under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which covers the condition and safety of homes rented privately or through letting agents. (Learn more about repairs duties)

Step-by-Step: How to Report Disrepair

Before you contact the council, follow these steps:

• Write to your landlord or letting agent explaining the issue and request repairs.
• Keep copies of your letters, emails, or texts.
• Allow a reasonable time for your landlord to respond—typically 14 days for non-urgent repairs, sooner if the problem is urgent.

If you do not receive a reply or repairs are delayed, your next step is contacting the environmental health team at your local council.

How the Council Can Help

• Carry out a home inspection to assess hazards and disrepair
• Issue an improvement notice ordering your landlord to make repairs
• Take immediate action if the problem is an emergency risk
• Support you if your landlord tries to evict you following a repair complaint (known as ‘retaliatory eviction’) (Repairs & Evictions Guidance)

Your council acts under the key Welsh legislation, the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which sets out renter and landlord responsibilities for repairs and standards.^[1]

Official Forms and Complaint Procedures

While there is no single”disrepair complaint form,” most councils accept reports by email, letter, or their online reporting systems. Where available, use your council’s housing complaints portal. A council officer may ask you to complete the:

• Housing Complaint Form: Used by councils for reporting serious repair problems. It guides you to provide details and evidence. Check your local council's housing page for the right form.
• Retaliatory Eviction Complaint (Section 217 Form): If you believe your landlord is seeking possession because you complained about repairs under Section 217 of the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, your council may ask you to complete this form.
  Example usage: If your landlord issues a "no-fault" notice after you raise a disrepair complaint, submit this form along with evidence. Find official guidance here.

Which Tribunal Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes in Wales?

If disputes escalate, the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales handles cases on housing standards, rent, and repairs. This independent body reviews applications and can make legally binding decisions.

What to Expect After Contacting the Council

A council officer will contact you and may inspect your home. If serious hazards exist, they will issue a notice to your landlord, who must comply or face penalties. Keep in mind the process may take several weeks, but immediate dangers are usually dealt with urgently.

Summary of Key Legal Protections

• Your right to a safe, well-maintained home is protected by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.^[1]
• Local councils have powers to investigate and enforce repairs.
• Official forms, complaint portals, and the Residential Property Tribunal for Wales provide further protection if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should I wait before contacting the council about repairs? Most issues should be fixed within 14 days, or sooner for urgent repairs. If your landlord doesn't respond, it's reasonable to involve the council.
2. Is my landlord responsible for all repairs? Landlords are responsible for the property's structure, sanitation, heating, and facilities. Tenants must keep the home clean and use it properly.
3. What if my landlord tries to evict me for complaining? Welsh law protects renters from most retaliatory evictions linked to repair complaints. If this happens, report it to your council immediately and consider completing a Section 217 Form.
4. What can the Residential Property Tribunal do? The tribunal can resolve disputes about repairs, rent, and other tenancy issues. Their decisions are legally binding on both parties.
5. Do I need legal advice before involving the council? While not required, advice from a housing adviser or council tenancy support officer can be helpful if your case is complex.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Always notify your landlord first about disrepair in writing.
• If repairs are delayed or ignored, your council's housing team will support you and can take enforcement action.
• Strong legal protections—including the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016—are in place for Welsh renters.

Knowing your rights and the proper steps can help you secure a safe, well-maintained home in Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government – Your Rights: Housing and Accommodation
• Find Your Local Council – to report disrepair or unsafe conditions
• Shelter Cymru – free confidential housing advice for renters in Wales
• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – for formal tenancy disputes and appeals
• Official Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 Guidance

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – Full Text
2. Residential Property Tribunal for Wales
3. Welsh Government – Repairs and Conditions Guidance
4. GOV.UK – Private Renting Repairs
5. Welsh Government – Housing Rights

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