News

As of today, new legislation comes into force in Wales that will change how landlords operate, with the tenant becoming a ‘contract holder’, and tenancy agreements replaced with ‘occupation contracts’.

The legislation aims to simplify and improve the process of renting for both landlords and tenants, and introduces measures such as:

• an extended eviction notice period of six months, which cannot be served in the first six months of the contract.
• additional requirements for landlords to demonstrate that a property is fit for human habitation. This includes regular electrical safety tests and the need to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good condition.

Find out more about what this new legislation means for landlords and agents here.

Isobel Thomson, safeagent’s chief executive, reflects on the changes:

“This marks a major milestone for the regulation of the PRS in Wales. While it’s good to see reform efforts take hold as legislation, the Welsh Government must also ensure that landlords are supported through these changes. With a chronic shortage of rental properties in Wales, a landlord exodus won’t help so it’s vital that all parties in the PRS are supported. The role that agents will play in informing and supporting landlords with the new legislation is pivotal.”