Written Statement Rules Under RHWA Explained

Tenants in Wales have specific rights under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act to receive a written statement that sets out the occupation contract and key terms. This document explains what must be in the written statement, when a landlord must give it, and what you can do if it is missing, incorrect or late. It covers practical steps such as checking start dates, rent details, notice periods and tenant obligations, and shows which official forms and the First-tier Tribunal handle disputes. Written simply for renters, the guide includes examples of how to ask your landlord for a corrected statement, how to keep evidence, and when to seek tribunal help in Wales.

What the written statement must include

The written statement required by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act sets out the main terms of your occupation contract so both parties know their rights and duties.^[1]

• Start date and contract length, including when occupation begins and any fixed-term end date.
• Rent amount, payment frequency and how to pay (bank transfer, standing order or direct debit).
• Deposit amount, where it is protected and the procedure for returning it at the end of the tenancy.
• Notice periods and grounds for possession so you know how a landlord can end the contract.
• Landlord and managing agent contact details and who is responsible for service of notices.
• Repair and maintenance responsibilities, including which party must arrange or pay for specific repairs.
• Any special clauses such as rules on pets, smoking or guest stays.

When landlords must provide it

The Act expects landlords to provide a written statement at or before the start of occupation or, if that is not possible, promptly afterwards so tenants have clear written terms.

• Before you move in or on the day occupation starts, when practical.
• If not given, ask the landlord in writing for the statement and a correction if details are wrong.
• Keep records of all requests, emails, texts and any draft or final statements you receive.
• If a landlord fails to provide or correct the statement, you may apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to resolve the issue.^[2]

Official forms and how to use them

There is no single numbered national template that tenants must use to request a written statement, but several official sources and application routes are important.

• Written statement (no form number) — this is the document your landlord must provide under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act; for example, ask for a corrected statement if the rent or start date is wrong and keep the reply as evidence. See the Act text for the legal requirements.^[1]
• Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) (no single form number) — used when informal requests do not resolve the situation; you can file an application or follow the tribunal guidance to raise disputes about contract terms or enforcement. The tribunal site explains how to apply and what evidence to include.^[2]
• Local authority or Welsh Government reporting (no form number) — for serious habitability or licensing issues linked to contract terms, use local authority housing complaint forms or Welsh Government guidance pages to report concerns and request enforcement action.^[3]

What to do if the statement is missing or incorrect

If you discover missing or incorrect information, take these practical tenant-focused actions to protect your position.

• Write to your landlord asking for a corrected written statement and give a clear deadline for a response.
• Save all messages, photos and documents as evidence including the original agreement and any text or email exchanges.
• Contact your local authority housing team for advice on enforcement if the issue affects safety or licensing.
• If the landlord still does not comply, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision and include your saved evidence.

FAQ

When should I get my written statement?

You should normally receive the written statement before you move in or promptly afterwards; check the Renting Homes (Wales) Act for the exact legal expectations and use written requests if it is late.^[1]

Can my landlord change terms in the written statement after I move in?

Changes to key terms generally require agreement or must follow the contract’s variation clause; if a landlord tries to impose new terms without your agreement you can raise the issue in writing and, if necessary, apply to the tribunal.

What if the landlord refuses to provide any written statement?

If informal requests fail, keep records and consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or seeking help from your local authority to enforce obligations under the Act.^[2]

Do I need a solicitor to apply to the tribunal?

No — many tenants represent themselves, but you can get free advice from local housing advice services or legal aid where eligible before applying.

How-To

1. Check the written statement on or before your move-in date and note any missing or incorrect items.
2. Ask your landlord in writing for a corrected written statement, setting a reasonable deadline to respond.
3. Collect and organise evidence: copies of the agreement, messages, receipts and photos showing the condition of the property.
4. Contact your local authority or a tenant advice service in Wales if the problem relates to health, safety or licensing.
5. If necessary, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) with your evidence and a clear statement of what remedy you seek.

Help and Support / Resources

• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
• Renting Homes (Wales) Act guidance - GOV.WALES

1. [1] Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
3. [3] Renting Homes (Wales) Act guidance - GOV.WALES