What is the Renting Homes Wales Act?

5th December 2022

Renting Homes Wales Act is the biggest reform to Welsh housing law in decades. It strengthens protections for landlords and occupiers and defines their obligations. 

Who will the new law affect?

Renting Homes Wales Act changes will be visible to both social and private residents. From the terms of their tenancy agreements, to the upkeep of their properties, to the way they interact with their landlords. All social and private landlords, including those who use management firms or agencies to rent their houses, will have to make the necessary changes to their operations and paperwork to comply with the new law.

How does the new law affect me personally? 

If you are a Tenant (now Contract Holder)

Tenants and licensees will henceforth be considered “contract-holders” under the new law. “Occupation Contracts” will take the place of tenancy agreements.

Renting will be easier and more secure according to the new law.

This will imply for contract holders:

• Receive a written agreement outlining your rights and obligations that replaces your tenancy agreement within 14 days.

• New renters who move in after 1st December will receive an Occupation Contract  in the regular manner and get a copy within 14 days.

• ‘No Fault Eviction’ notices (Section 173s) are now a 6 month notice period.

• Enhanced succession rights, which specify who has the right to live in a home, for instance after the existing renter passes away. This implies that you may now feel secure knowing that your family is more secure. As long as they adhere to the Act’s conditions, both “priority” and “reserve” successors are now eligible to take over the “Occupation Contract.”

• Greater flexibility for joint contract holders, facilitating the addition of or removal of individuals from an occupation contract.

If you are a landlord

For landlords this act means:

• A more straightforward system with two types of leases: “Secure” for social housing and “Standard” for private housing

• Ensuring that houses are suitable for living under the Fitness for Human Habitation Act (FFHH). This will entail doing an electrical safety inspection and checking that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functional.

• Repossession of abandoned property is possible without a judicial order.

What should I do next?

We want this transition to be as smooth as possible for everyone. Whether you’re a landlord or a contract holder it is important you know what the changes mean for you and your situation. Seraph Property Management is here to prepare you and guide you through the process.

Find out more about the new law at the Welsh Government Website.

• Share: