The Way You Rent Is Changing (In Wales)

From 1st December 2022 The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 will be introduced. The aim of the act is to improve how we rent, manage and live in rented homes in Wales.

It will affect all landlords and tenants in Wales and the new law simplifies current Tenancy Agreements which will be replaced by new Occupation Contracts. It aims to improve the condition of rental homes in Wales and offers greater security and certainty to tenants and landlords.

What Does This Mean For Me?

• Your rent will not increase as a result of the Renting Homes Act but will increase as usual each year with the rent uplift. However, you will now get two months’ notice instead of one.
• Your current Tenancy Agreement will be replaced by an Occupation Contract setting out your rights and responsibilities.
• An increase in the ‘no fault’ notice period from two to six months
• Greater protection from eviction
• Improved succession rights that will set out who has a right to continue to live in a dwelling.
• Joint Contract flexibility; A joint contract-holder will be able to leave a contract without ending the contract entirely.

What Happens Next?

Existing residents will have their currents terms added to their new contract unless this contradicts any new fundamental terms. Landlords have until 1st June 2023 to provide the transitionary contracts so you will be contacted prior to this date by us to confirm the delivery of your new contract.

The law has changed in relation to smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

The new requirements are set out in the Renting Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) (Wales) Regulations 2022.

If you would like to discuss any of the above with us or if you have further questions, please contact us on 01454 411172 or email us at info@elimhousing.co.uk.

Alternatively, we have included some useful resources below as guidance for customers living in Wales:

Find out more information on how the law is changing 

Further guidance for tenants in Wales