16th
Nov 2015
A new law to tackle rogue landlords and make it easier to rent a home has been passed by the Welsh Assembly.
Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act, all landlords and lettings agents must provide written and signed statements detailing their exact responsibilities. They must also supply the details of their tenants’ rights.
The new law makes it mandatory for landlords to carry out repairs when necessary, however it helps landlords to repossess any of their abandoned/empty properties much more quickly.
Welsh Housing Minister Lesley Griffiths states it is "vital this area of law is modern and fit for purpose".
She also added: "This Bill will ensure both landlords and those renting their homes are aware of their rights and responsibilities from the outset, and will provide additional protection against the poor practices of some landlords."
The Citizens Advice Cymru, along with other campaign groups, had successfully persuaded the government to keep the six-month protection from no-fault eviction for tenants on fixed term contracts, as the clause was not originally included in the Bill.
Policy Officer for Citizens Advice Bureau, Ellie McNeil, said the Bill was a “historic new law”.
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