Your Options If a Welsh Housing Tribunal Rules Against You

If you're a renter in Wales and the Residential Property Tribunal rules against you, it's natural to feel concerned about your next steps. Whether your dispute was over repairs, rent, or eviction, knowing what to do and where to turn can make all the difference. This guide explains your rights, the appeal process, and practical actions if the tribunal decision doesn't go your way, with clear links to all official resources.

Understanding Tribunal Decisions in Wales

The Residential Property Tribunal for Wales hears cases about tenancy disputes, rent increases, eviction, and property standards. If you've received a tribunal decision that doesn't favour you, you may have several options depending on your case type and the specific decision.

• Rent increases: The tribunal may set a new rent amount which takes effect from a certain date.
• Repair or maintenance disputes: The tribunal can order repairs or dismiss your application.
• Eviction matters: The decision may uphold your landlord’s action or support your right to remain.

All decisions are made under Welsh law, including the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which governs most residential tenancies in Wales^[1].

Immediate Actions After an Unfavourable Tribunal Decision

Take the following steps if the tribunal's outcome is not in your favour:

• Read the written reasons – You'll receive a decision notice explaining how and why the tribunal ruled.
• Note the date – Any appeal or reconsideration must be started within strict deadlines, usually within 28 days.
• Check for enforcement risk – If the decision allows your landlord to take action (like eviction), find out when this might happen and seek advice if you're worried.
• Consider your options – You may be able to request a review, seek permission to appeal, or comply with the order.

Can You Challenge or Appeal the Tribunal's Decision?

Yes, but there are strict rules. You may either request a review (for clear errors or new evidence) or seek permission to appeal to the Upper Tribunal.

Requesting a Review by the Tribunal

• Use Form RPT20: Application for Review
• Form RPT20 (Application for Review) is used to ask the tribunal to reconsider its decision if you think there has been a procedural irregularity or something significant was overlooked.
• How to use: Complete and send RPT20 within 28 days from the date the decision was issued, explaining why you believe a review is necessary. For example, if new evidence has come to light or you believe there was a mistake in the process.
• Send to the Residential Property Tribunal (Wales) using their contact details found on the first page of the form.

Appealing to the Upper Tribunal

• If you're dissatisfied with the outcome after a review, or if you believe there's a legal error in the decision, you can seek permission to appeal to the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber).
• How to start: Write to the tribunal office, explaining why you think the decision was legally wrong. If permission is refused, you may apply directly to the Upper Tribunal. Details are in your decision letter and on the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) official site.
• If accepted, you'll need to complete the required appeal form (such as 'UT4 – Application Notice') and submit it within the relevant timelines.

It can help to get advice before starting an appeal as it can be complex and is not an automatic right – you'll need to show there is a strong legal case to proceed.

Complying With the Tribunal Decision

If you decide not to appeal, or if your appeal is unsuccessful, you must comply with the tribunal’s order. For example:

• Pay any rent arrears or newly set rent levels
• Vacate the property if ordered
• Allow agreed repairs to be carried out

Failure to comply may allow your landlord to seek enforcement through the courts.

Relevant Forms and Where to Find Them

• Residential Property Tribunal Wales Forms – For reviews, submissions, or appeals.
• UT4: Application Notice (Upper Tribunal) – Start this process only after following tribunal instructions.

Each form includes guidance notes on completion and where to send them.

FAQ: Renters’ Common Questions After a Tribunal Loss

1. Can I stay in my home if the tribunal has ruled for eviction?
   If the tribunal upholds your landlord’s action and you are ordered to leave, you must either appeal quickly or comply. If you wish to remain, seek advice immediately, as ignoring the order can lead to court enforcement.
2. How quickly do I need to act if I want to appeal?
   Usually, you must apply for a review or permission to appeal within 28 days of the tribunal decision. Always check your decision notice for specific deadlines.
3. Can I get help with completing tribunal forms?
   Yes. Contact a local advice centre, a tenant support charity, or your local authority’s housing team for help with forms and the process.
4. Will appealing delay enforcement of the tribunal’s decision?
   An appeal may delay enforcement, but not always. You should make enquiry about ‘stay of enforcement’ if you intend to appeal. Seek advice promptly to avoid missing important deadlines.
5. How do I know if my type of tenancy is covered by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016?
   Most tenancies and licences granted after December 1, 2022, are ‘occupation contracts’ under the Act. Check your contract or contact official Welsh Government guidance for more details.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Property Tribunal for Wales – For current forms, decisions, and official procedures
• Welsh Government: Your Renting Rights – Official information on renter protection and the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
• Shelter Cymru – Free, confidential housing advice and casework for renters in Wales
• Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) – For appeals from the Welsh tribunal
• Your local council housing team – For support, advice and emergency help

---

1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 – see the official legislation text: Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation