Solicitors involved in conveyancing have a role to play in helping landlords become compliant. Sharing information about Rent Smart Wales with landlords when a property is purchased or during probate will help them comply with the law sooner.
Landlords and agents who operate in the Welsh private rented sector have obligations under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014.
The act gives reassurance that those who own, let or manage private rented properties are fit and proper to do so.
These obligations include that:
- all landlords with privately rented property let out on a domestic tenancy must register with Rent Smart Wales
- landlords and agents who let and/or manage rental properties in Wales need a Rent Smart Wales licence
Rent Smart Wales compliance in the private rented sector is high. However, landlords who are new to the sector often fail to comply in the required timescale.
Landlords can face consequences such as fixed penalty notices, prosecution, Rent Stopping and Rent Repayment Orders, and restrictions on being able to secure possession.
All information about the registration and licensing requirements for landlords and agents can be found on the Rent Smart Wales website.
Resources to share with Landlords
Rent Smart Wales has also produced a leaflet that can be shared with landlords.
Solicitors and their clients can contact Rent Smart Wales for more guidance.
