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Welsh Government promises "one clear legal framework" with implementation of Renting Homes (Wales) Act in July

The Welsh Government intends to implement the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 on 15 July, Climate Change Minister Julie James has confirmed.

The Act will see 'no-fault' notice periods increased from two months to six months. It will also 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”.

The Welsh Government said the legislation will also introduce a consistent approach across sectors to eviction where antisocial behaviour and domestic violence occurs.

Other changes brought in by the Act will include:

  • All landlords being required to provide a written copy of the occupation contract to the tenant (called the ‘contract-holder’ in the legislation). "This will set 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 eviction' (whereby a landlord serves notice on a tenant because they ask for repairs, or complain about poor conditions).

James said: “This Act represents the biggest change to housing law in Wales for decades. The Act will make it simpler and easier to rent a home in Wales, replacing various, complex pieces of existing legislation and case law with one clear legal framework. 

“When in place, contract-holders in Wales will have greater security of tenure than in any other part of the UK.”

The Welsh Government is to run a national awareness campaign intended to ensure both landlords and tenants are aware of the changes that will take effect from July 2022.

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