Drastic changes for Welsh letting agents become law today
After several months of delay, letting agents and landlords must now adhere to changes within the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.
Huge changes to the way Welsh letting agents manage properties and tenancies outlined within the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 have become law this morning.
The new legislation, which has been much debated and delayed this year, replaces various and complex pieces of existing legislation and case law.
It also introduces a single and clear legal framework, providing contract-holders in Wales with greater security than in any other part of the UK, the Welsh government claims.
The legislation has not been without its detractors including many landlords, who will now have to wait in many circumstances a year to evict a tenant as ‘no-fault’ notice periods increase from two months to six months for new tenants now, and for existing tenants on Thursday, June 1.
It will no longer be possible to issue a notice in the first six months, meaning all contract-holders will have a minimum 12 months of security at the start of their tenancy.
Other key changes include:
- All landlords now required to provide a written copy of the occupation contract to the tenant setting out the rights and responsibilities of both parties.
- A strengthened duty on landlords to ensure the property they rent is fit for human habitation including the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and regular electrical safety testing.
- Addressing the practice of ‘retaliatory evictions’ (whereby a landlord or agent serves notice on a tenant because they ask for repairs or complain about poor conditions).
- The introduction of a consistent approach across sectors to eviction where antisocial behaviour and domestic violence occurs.
“This is a momentous moment as we completely transform the rented sector in Wales,” says Climate Change Minister Julie James (main picture).
“A decent, safe and secure home is fundamental to people’s well-being. These changes will provide tenants with greater protection from eviction and ensure their home is safe to live in.
“At the same time, landlords will benefit from greater clarity in the law and the ability to repossess abandoned properties more quickly.
“As we build a stronger, greener and more prosperous Wales, I would like to thank all those who have joined us on this journey to making renting simpler and fairer.”
Read the official guidance on the changes.
