New law to tackle rogue agents and landlords in Wales

There are just a few weeks now remaining until it becomes compulsory for all landlords and agents in Wales to register with a central licensing authority and obtain a new type of licence, viathe Rent Smart Wales initiative. Under the new law, being introduced this autumn, with a view to improve letting and management standards for people who rent private accommodation in Wales, all landlords and agents will be required to take part in a new registration and licensing scheme, which forms a key part of The Housing (Wales) Act 2014. This new legislation will see Wales become the first country in the UK where managing landlords and agents are obliged toobtain a new type of licence as well as undertake training to ensure they are aware of their rights and responsibilities. The new Rent Smart Wales scheme will replace the existing voluntary Landlord Accreditation Wales initiative, which has been operated by Cardiff Council on behalf of all local authorities in Wales. The aim of the new legislation is ultimately to increase awareness among landlords, tenants and agents of their respective rights and responsibilities, as well as improve standards in the PRS. All private landlords who own a rental home…