Written Statement at Move-In: Wales Tenant Guide

Receiving a clear written statement at move-in helps tenants and renters understand their rights and responsibilities from day one. In Wales, a written statement should summarise who the landlord is, the tenancy type, rent and deposit details, payment dates, notice periods, repair responsibilities and how to report problems. Keep copies of inventories, receipts and photos so you can prove the condition of the property and any agreed repairs. If the landlord does not provide a written statement, ask for it in writing and save your messages. This guide explains what to expect, practical steps to request missing information, when to use official forms, and how to escalate disputes to the First-tier Tribunal or local housing authority.

What is a written statement at move-in?

A written statement at move-in is a short document or a tenancy contract summary provided by a landlord or agent that sets out the key terms of your tenancy. It gives both parties a clear record of what was agreed so there is less chance of misunderstandings later. In the context of Wales, these terms are supported by national housing law and the wider framework that covers private renting.^[1][2]

What should a written statement include?

• Landlord and agent contact details, including full name, address and emergency contact for repairs.
• Rent amount, how often it is due, accepted payment methods and the date the first payment is due.
• Deposit amount and the name of the tenancy deposit protection scheme where it is held, plus how to get the prescribed information.
• Inventory and condition report details: what was agreed as the move-in condition and where to find the signed inventory.
• Repair and maintenance responsibilities: who to contact, response times and which repairs the landlord must arrange.
• Notice periods, any special break clauses and how notices should be served.
• Type of tenancy (for example assured shorthold or other standard form) and a clear statement of the tenancy start date and any key legal references.

What to do if you do not receive a written statement

If you move in without a written statement, ask the landlord or agent to provide one immediately and keep the request in writing (email or text). If the landlord refuses or fails to respond within a reasonable time, gather evidence: your communications, receipts, inventory photos and bank records of rent payments. If informal requests do not work, you can escalate to Rent Smart Wales or your local housing authority for advice, or make an application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a remedy including asking for enforcement of terms or deposit return.^[3]

Official forms and where to find them

The most relevant official documents and online forms tenants in Wales may need are listed below. Each link goes to an official government or tribunal source.

• Prescribed information for tenancy deposits (tenancy deposit protection): use this guidance when you need to check whether your deposit was protected and what information must be provided. Example: if your landlord took a deposit but did not give details of the scheme, check the guidance and contact the scheme to confirm protection.
• Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — use the tribunal application process to ask for a decision about tenancy terms, deposit disputes or other contract issues. Example: if your landlord will not return a protected deposit after you move out, you can apply to the Tribunal for an order.

How-To

1. Check all move-in paperwork and the inventory immediately and make dated photos of every room and any existing damage.
2. Ask the landlord in writing for a written statement listing the required items and request confirmation of deposit protection if applicable.
3. Keep copies of all messages, receipts for rent and repairs, and store photos in cloud storage or email so they are time-stamped and backed up.
4. If the landlord still does not provide necessary information, use the official application route to the First-tier Tribunal or contact Rent Smart Wales for enforcement advice.

FAQ

Do landlords in Wales have to give a written statement when I move in?

Yes, tenants should receive a clear summary of tenancy terms at or shortly after move-in so both parties have the same record. If this is missing, ask the landlord and keep evidence of your request.

What if the written statement differs from the inventory?

If terms in the written statement differ from the inventory, raise the discrepancy with the landlord immediately and save any replies. If you cannot agree, you can bring evidence to the First-tier Tribunal or seek advice from Rent Smart Wales.

How long should I keep the written statement and move-in records?

Keep the written statement, inventory, photos and payment records for the duration of the tenancy and for at least six years after it ends if you may need to bring a claim or defend one.

Key Takeaways

• Always confirm rent, deposit and payment dates in writing before or at move-in.
• Keep a dated inventory and photos as your primary evidence for deposit and condition disputes.
• If a landlord will not supply a written statement, you can escalate to the First-tier Tribunal or the relevant enforcement body.

Help and Support / Resources

• Renting in Wales - Welsh Government
• Rent Smart Wales
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK

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1. [1] Housing Act 1988 - legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] Rent Act 1977 - legislation.gov.uk
3. [3] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK