The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 changed how renting works for everyone.
It came into effect on 1 December 2022 — and it gives tenants clearer rights, stronger safety rules, and longer notice periods.
Here’s what matters:
Every renter now has an “occupation contract.”
There are only two types:
• Standard – for private rentals.
• Secure – for council or housing association homes.
Landlords must give a written contract within 14 days of moving in.
It explains what both sides can and can’t do.
If you don’t have one, ask in writing — it’s the law.
No-fault evictions take longer.
Private landlords must give six months’ written notice to end a periodic contract that began after 1 Dec 2022.
They can’t even start that notice until you’ve been in the home for six months.
So renters now have at least 12 months of protection before any “no-fault” eviction can happen.
Homes must be safe and fit to live in.
Landlords are now legally responsible for:
Working smoke and CO alarms
Safe electrics and gas
Proper heating, hot water and sanitation
Fixing serious damp or mould
If a home isn’t safe, written complaints should go to the landlord first — and then to the local council’s housing team if nothing changes.
Eviction without a court order is illegal.
Changing locks, removing belongings, or trying to “force” someone out is a criminal offence.
Only the courts can authorise an eviction.
Shared homes are simpler.
If one housemate leaves, a new person can be added to the contract without starting again from scratch — as long as everyone agrees.
If a tenant dies, loved ones are protected.
A partner or family member can usually take over the contract, so no one loses their home unexpectedly.
Ending a contract properly.
Renters normally give four weeks’ notice to move out.
Landlords must use the correct legal process to end a contract.
Need housing advice in Wales?
• Shelter Cymru – 08000 495 495
• Citizens Advice Cymru – citizensadvice.org.uk/wales
• Your local council – ask for the Housing Enforcement or Private Renting Team
Knowledge is power.
Understanding these rules helps renters and landlords build safer, fairer communities across Wales.
