Delay in changes to residential letting – but landlords should still take action

Important changes in residential letting to be introduced in mid-July are now to be brought into force on 1 December.
First published on 31 May 2022.
Housing Wales

“The delay in bringing the changes into force provides urgently needed time for communication between landlords and tenants and their representatives, and for the appropriate legal and practical changes to be undertaken," says CLA Policy & Engagement Manager, Emily Church. "Landlords may need the additional time to be sure not only that their contracts comply, but the properties comply too - by the new implementation date, 1 December 2022,"

“In January, the Welsh Government announced that they would be bringing into force the provisions of the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 in July of this year. Following the announcement, CLA Cymru have produced an array of updates, Guidance Notes and a webinar (still available to watch, here) to inform and advise landlords and tenants of the forthcoming changes.”

“We welcome the news which came in a Written Statement from the Welsh Government’s Minister for Climate Change, Julie James MS. Since the initial announcement in January, CLA Cymru has recommended the Welsh Government allow sufficient time for the changes to be fully absorbed into residential letting contracts.

CLA Cymru understands that many landlords will be in the process of preparing - or may have already completed, the required changes, but we do advise members not to see this as a reprieve, not to put preparations on-hold, but to take action to prepare. Communication with tenants, making legal changes, moreover undertaking any physical work on properties – could all take time.

Our simple tips for most rural residential landlords are:

  1. Ensure you have a clear understanding about how the legislation will affect plans you may have for your properties, revenue and relationship with contract holders
  2. Be sure to engage with tenants, informing them of the changes coming forward, and be prepared for them to take some time to respond
  3. Have new contracts prepared where this is necessary
  4. Carry out modifications to comply with the Fit for Human Habitation (FFHH) Regulations that will be a landlord’s obligation. These, in particular, may require the extra time to bring into effect

Members requiring further information can contact our Policy Adviser here, or call for advice on 01547 317085.