Does the Renters’ Rights Bill Affect Welsh Landlords?

The Renters’ Rights Bill modernises the rental market to make it fairer for tenants and balanced for landlords. Although housing law is devolved, parts of the Bill, including anti-discrimination measures, apply to landlords in Wales. The Renters' Rights Bill received Royal Assent and will come into force in 2026.

What Is the Renters’ Rights Bill?

The Renters’ Rights Bill is a major reform of the private rental sector. It aims to improve affordability, quality and security for tenants while recognising the role of responsible landlords.

The Bill addresses long-standing problems such as poor housing conditions and short-notice evictions. It seeks to reward professional landlords, discourage unfair practices and create a stable rental system that benefits everyone involved.

Does the Renters’ Rights Bill Apply in Wales?

Housing is a devolved area, so the Welsh Government decides how housing laws are implemented and enforced. However, parts of the Renters’ Rights Bill, particularly the anti-discrimination measures, extend to Wales.

This means Welsh landlords must follow the same standards on fairness and equality as those in England. The Welsh Government will align these changes with existing housing laws, including the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, to ensure a consistent approach across the UK.

When Will the Renters’ Rights Bill Come Into Force?

The Renters’ Rights Bill received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 and will come into force during 2026. The Government has not yet confirmed an exact date. It is expected that no significant changes will take effect before April 2026.

This phased approach will allow landlords, letting agents and local authorities time to understand the new rules and adjust their procedures. Further guidance and secondary legislation will be published closer to the implementation date.

What is changing for welsh landlords with the Renters' Rights Act?

What Is Changing for Welsh Landlords?

The Bill introduces a ban on rental discrimination against families with children and tenants who receive benefits. The practice of “No DSS” advertising, which excludes applicants who receive benefits, will become unlawful.

Under the new law:

• Landlords and letting agents must assess each tenant individually.

• Affordability and reference checks can continue but must be applied fairly.

• Refusing an applicant solely because they have children or receive benefits will be unlawful.

• Mortgage, lease and insurance clauses that require discrimination will no longer be valid.

In Wales, breaches of these provisions will be treated as criminal offences under existing housing enforcement structures.

How Should Landlords Prepare?

Welsh landlords can begin preparing for the Bill’s introduction by reviewing their policies and documentation.

Recommended steps include:

• Reviewing property advertisements to remove any exclusionary wording.

• Checking mortgage, lease and insurance terms for compliance with the new law.

• Keeping written records of tenant assessments and decisions.

• Seeking legal advice where tenancy terms or contracts may need updating.

Preparation now will help landlords stay compliant and avoid potential penalties once the new law takes effect.

What If a Property Is Unsuitable for Children?

Landlords can still consider suitability when assessing tenants. For example, a one-bedroom flat may not meet housing standards for a large family. Decisions must be based on objective property factors rather than general exclusions of tenants with children.

Renters' Rights Bill Frequently Asked Questions

Will landlords still be able to choose tenants?

Yes. Landlords may still select tenants based on lawful criteria such as affordability or suitability of the property.

What happens if my mortgage or insurance policy restricts certain tenants?

Clauses that require discrimination will no longer be enforceable. Existing policies remain valid until renewal but new ones must comply with the updated law.

When will the changes start in Wales?

The Renters’ Rights Bill received Royal Assent in October 2025 and will take effect in 2026. It is expected that no major changes will begin before April 2026.

Will this affect existing tenancies?

Yes, but most changes will apply when new tenancies are granted or renewed. Transitional rules will be confirmed once the Welsh Government sets a start date.

The Renters' Rights Bill in Wales

The Renters’ Rights Bill marks a major change in rental law. For Welsh landlords, the main focus will be understanding and complying with new anti-discrimination provisions from 2026 onwards. Preparing early will help ensure compliance and maintain good relationships with tenants while supporting fair and transparent renting across Wales.

If you are a landlord in Wales and need advice on how the Renters’ Rights Bill could affect your legal obligations, contact RJM Solicitors in Merthyr Tydfil. Call 01685 37 37 21 or email info@rjmsolicitors.co.uk to speak with our Landlord and Tenant team.