Landlord’s Guide to Renting in Wales

With Burnett Davies with Easton

Renting out a property in Wales involves more than simply finding a tenant. As a landlord, you have legal responsibilities to meet, from registration and licensing to property standards and safety checks. This guide provides an overview of what’s required and how Burnett Davies with Easton can help you stay fully compliant.

1. Rent Smart Wales – What You Need to Know

Rent Smart Wales is the national scheme designed to improve standards in the private rented sector in Wales. Under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, it is a legal requirement for landlords to register and, in many cases, to obtain a licence.

Landlord Registration

All landlords who rent out residential property in Wales must:

• Register themselves as a landlord with Rent Smart Wales.
• Provide details of each rental property they own in Wales.

Registration must be renewed every five years.

Landlord Licensing

If you self-manage your property (i.e., arrange viewings, collect rent, handle maintenance, etc.), you must also:

• Complete approved landlord training.
• Apply for a landlord licence from Rent Smart Wales.

Alternatively, if you use a licensed letting agent like Burnett Davies with Easton, you don’t need to obtain a licence yourself, we’ll manage all aspects of the tenancy on your behalf in full compliance with the law.

2. Legal Responsibilities & Compliance

Renting a property in Wales comes with a wide range of legal obligations. Key areas include:

Tenancy Agreements

• Must comply with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which came into force on 1 December 2022.
• All contracts are now referred to as Occupation Contracts, using a standard format.

Deposit Protection

• If taking a security deposit, it must be registered with a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.

Safety Requirements

• A valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), minimum rating of E.
• Annual Gas Safety Certificate (if applicable).
• Electrical Safety Inspection at least every five years.
• Working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in place.

Fitness for Human Habitation

• Properties must be safe, clean and in good repair.
• This includes addressing damp, mould, and hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

3. Our Lettings & Management Service

With our professional lettings and management service, we take care of everything, ensuring your property is compliant and your tenancy runs smoothly. Our service includes:

• Registering and managing the tenancy in line with Rent Smart Wales
• Preparing compliant Occupation Contracts
• Ensuring deposit protection and statutory notices are served
• Arranging legally required safety checks and certificates
• Conducting thorough tenant referencing and inventory preparation
• Managing maintenance, inspections, and rent collection
• Providing ongoing compliance advice and updates