2 minute read
The Renting Homes (Amendment) (Wales) Bill came into force on 1st December 2022, implementing a number of rule changes to the way properties are let in Wales, including the introduction of new standard Occupation Contracts which replace the old Tenancy Agreement.
All Landlords and Agents with properties in Wales are affected by these changes.
Some of the key changes to be aware of are:
• Occupation Contracts – all tenancy agreements have been automatically converted to Occupation Contracts and tenants have become ‘contract holders’. Any new agreements created from the revised implementation date of 1st December 2022 must be Occupation Contracts and will need to adhere to be new Welsh Government’s prescribed format.
• Written Statement - you will have six months from the implementation date of the act to issue a new ‘written statement’ of occupation to all existing tenants/ contract holders to successfully convert them to Occupation Contracts.
• Contract Termination – it makes permanent the requirement to serve notice for a period of six months, where there is no breach by the contract holder, and this cannot be served until after month six. Break clauses will also only be permitted in agreements of 2 years or more and won’t be exercisable within the first 18 months.
• Fitness for Human Habitation (FFHH) – properties will only be allowed to be let and rent payable if they are considered ‘FFHH’. This includes having a satisfactory electrical safety certificate (EICR), a mains wired interlinked smoke alarm system and a carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a gas, oil or solid fuel burning appliance, including gas boilers.
If you are unsure what this means for you, or would like further advice please contact your local branch today or by emailing angela@peteralan.co.uk
Whether you are self-managing you property, on the market with another agent or letting with Peter Alan already, we are here to help and guide you.
