Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 implementation deadline approaches
A significant compliance deadline for landlords in Wales is approaching that should not be overlooked.
As part of changes to the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, new terms will now have to be incorporated into contracts that have arisen from the Renters’ Right Act (England and Wales) 2025.
The changes will make it unlawful for landlords - and letting agents - to discriminate against prospective or existing contract-holders because they have children or receive benefits.
From 1 June 2026, landlords must officially update existing occupation contracts to include these new legally required terms. It is not sufficient to email tenants informally or assume the changes apply automatically. Any new occupation contracts must also contain these new terms.
Although the changes are relatively straightforward, the compliance window is short and CLA members are reminded to ensure they comply with the application of new clauses by June 14 2026.
Members would have received a number of notifications from Rent Smart Wales over the past few months, in addition to a reminder in CLA Guidance Note GN26-20 - Residential Tenancies - The Renters' Rights Act.
Guidance on the new terms and updating occupation contracts can be found using the link below, with the guidance providing a template that can be used to send to existing contract holders.
The new terms must be served on contract-holders in writing no later than 14 June 2026 by personal delivery or by first class post (to the last known address) or by email but only if service by email has been previously agreed. In any case, proof of service should be obtained such as tracked postage, receipted signature or photographic evidence.
If you have any questions or concerns please contact the CLA Cymru team for further advice.
