Welsh Government promises "one clear legal framework" with implementation of Renting Homes (Wales) Act in July

The Act will see 'no-fault' notice periods increased from two months to six months. It will also no longer be possible to issue a notice in the first six months, “meaning all contract-holders will have a minimum 12 months of security at the start of their tenancy”.

The Welsh Government said the legislation will also introduce a consistent approach across sectors to eviction where antisocial behaviour and domestic violence occurs.

Other changes brought in by the Act will include:

• All landlords being required to provide a written copy of the occupation contract to the tenant (called the ‘contract-holder’ in the legislation). "This will set out the rights and responsibilities of both parties."
• A strengthened duty on landlords, to ensure the property they rent is fit for human habitation including the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and regular electrical safety testing.
• Addressing the practice of 'retaliatory eviction' (whereby a landlord serves notice on a tenant because they ask for repairs, or complain about poor conditions).

James said: “This Act represents the biggest change to housing law in Wales for decades. The Act will make it simpler and easier to rent a home in Wales, replacing various, complex pieces of existing legislation and case law with one clear legal framework. 

“When in place, contract-holders in Wales will have greater security of tenure than in any other part of the UK.”

The Welsh Government is to run a national awareness campaign intended to ensure both landlords and tenants are aware of the changes that will take effect from July 2022.