Your Rights in Temporary and Emergency Accommodation in Wales

Facing the loss of your home can be overwhelming, but if you've become homeless in Wales, your local council has a legal duty to provide assistance—and that often means offering you temporary accommodation. Understanding your rights in this situation is vital for your wellbeing and planning your next steps.

What is Temporary Accommodation and When Are You Entitled?

Temporary (or emergency) accommodation is a short-term place to stay while your local authority assesses your homelessness application or until longer-term housing can be arranged. Under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, if you are homeless or threatened with homelessness within 56 days, the council must help you find somewhere suitable to stay¹.

• Eligibility: Any applicant who appears homeless or at risk within 56 days, and meets immigration/recourse requirements.
• Examples of temporary accommodation: Hostels, B&Bs, supported housing, or private flats/rooms arranged by the council.
• Children or vulnerable groups: There is a stronger duty to provide accommodation if you have dependent children, are pregnant, or are considered vulnerable.

Your Key Rights in Temporary Accommodation

• The right to suitable accommodation: The property must meet your household's needs—for example, not placing families with children in B&Bs for more than 6 weeks.
• The right to information: The council must provide you a written statement explaining your rights, responsibilities, and the terms under which you are offered temporary accommodation.
• Protection from unlawful eviction: You cannot be made to leave without correct official notice. The accommodation provider or council must follow legal eviction processes.
• The right to request reviews: If you believe your accommodation is unsuitable or the council makes a negative homelessness decision, you can ask for a review.
• Access to support services: Councils must consider if you need support—e.g., due to illness, disability, or domestic abuse—and help you access specialist services where necessary.

Paying for Temporary Accommodation

You may need to pay rent or service charges for your temporary housing. If you receive benefits or are on a low income, you can usually apply for Housing Benefit to help cover costs. Speak to the council’s housing or welfare team about available support.

How to Challenge Unsuitable Accommodation or Decisions

If you think your temporary accommodation is not suitable for your needs—perhaps it is unsafe, inaccessible, or not appropriate for your family—you have the right to request a formal review from the council. Under Section 85 of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, you must normally do this within 21 days of receiving the decision or accommodation offer².

Tip: Write down detailed reasons why the property is unsuitable and include supporting evidence, such as medical letters or photographs.

Official Forms for Appeals and Reviews

• Homelessness Review Request (Form HHRR): Used for asking the council to formally review their decision about your accommodation or homelessness application. Submit your request in writing or using your council’s online portal (look for "Request a review of a homelessness decision" on your local authority’s website).
  Example: If your temporary accommodation is too far from your children's school and impacts wellbeing, use this process to request a review.
  Find your local Welsh council's homelessness services.

The Relevant Tribunal or Board in Wales

If you are unlawfully evicted from temporary accommodation or want to pursue a complaint about the conduct of the provider, you may take your case to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales. They handle disputes about occupation contracts and certain housing standards cases.

Eviction from Temporary Accommodation

You generally have the right to proper notice before being asked to leave. If your local authority ends its duty to accommodate you or if you breach the temporary accommodation rules, you must still be served notice following Wales homelessness law. If in doubt, seek immediate advice as you may be able to challenge the eviction or find alternative support.

FAQ: Temporary Housing Rights in Wales

1. Can I refuse an offer of temporary accommodation if I think it is unsuitable?
   Yes, but you should seek advice first. Refusing without good reason could impact your right to further help. If you think the offer is truly unsuitable, ask for a review and provide your reasons in writing.
2. Do I have to pay for my temporary accommodation?
   Most people pay rent or service charges, but you may be eligible for Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. Speak to your council's housing team for help with forms and entitlements.
3. How long can I stay in temporary accommodation?
   There is no fixed maximum, but it should only be for as long as needed while your homelessness application is processed or suitable longer-term housing is found.
4. Who is eligible for temporary accommodation from the council?
   If you are homeless or at risk within 56 days and meet residency and immigration criteria, the council must help you. Additional duties apply to families with children, pregnant people, or those considered vulnerable.
5. Who can I contact if I’m threatened with homelessness?
   Your local council’s homelessness team is your first stop. They are legally obliged to assess your needs and offer support. See the resources below for contacts.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Temporary Accommodation

• You have clear legal rights to suitable, safe, and appropriately located temporary accommodation under Welsh law.
• Request a review promptly if the council’s decision or offer is unsuitable—time limits apply (usually 21 days).
• Seek advice and support early; the earlier you act, the more options you'll have.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Housing help if you’re homeless
• Find your local Welsh council's homelessness and housing advice
• Shelter Cymru: Free housing advice and support
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales (for complaints or disputes)

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1. Housing (Wales) Act 2014
2. Section 85: Right to request review – Housing (Wales) Act 2014

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