As a North Wales estate agent, we’re often asked whether the proposed Renters Reform Act will affect landlords operating in Wales. With so much coverage in the media, it’s understandable that there can be confusion, particularly for those with property portfolios across England and Wales.

Here’s a clear and informative breakdown of what it means for Welsh landlords.

The Short Answer: Not Directly

The Renters Reform Act is legislation for England only. Housing policy is devolved, meaning that Wales sets its own rental laws independently of Westminster.

For landlords in Wales, the key legislation to be aware of is the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2022, which came into force in December 2022 and already introduced many reforms similar to those proposed in England.

How Wales Is Already Ahead

In many respects, Wales has been ahead of the curve when it comes to rental reform. The Renting Homes (Wales) Act significantly changed the way tenancies operate:

• Tenancies replaced with “occupation contracts”
• Section 21-style evictions effectively removed or restricted (now requiring a minimum 6-month notice period in most cases)
• Increased notice periods giving tenants greater security
• Greater compliance requirements for landlords, including fitness for human habitation standards

Key Differences Landlords Should Note

While there are similarities between the English proposals and Welsh legislation, there are still important distinctions:

1. Evictions and Notice Periods - In Wales, landlords must currently give at least six months’ notice for a no-fault eviction under a periodic contract. In England, the Renters Reform Act abolishes Section 21 entirely and restructure possession grounds.

2. Tenancy Structure - Wales has already moved away from Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), instead using a model contract known as an occupation contract.

3. Compliance and Licensing - Landlords in Wales must comply with Rent Smart Wales requirements, including registration and licensing, something that does not exist in the same way in England.

Indirect Impacts to Be Aware Of

Although the Renters Reform Act does not apply in Wales, it does still have indirect implications:

• Amended Legislation: The Renting Homes (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Wales) Regulations 2026 makes provisions preventing a landlord from discriminating against a contract-holder who has children or who is in receipt of welfare benefits.
• Future Welsh legislation: The Welsh Government may continue to refine housing law, influenced by reforms across the border

What Should North Wales Landlords Do?

For landlords in North Wales, the priority should be:

• Ensuring full compliance with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act and recent amendments which must be communicated to the tenants within 14 days from 1^st June 2026.
• Keeping up to date with guidance from Rent Smart Wales and Welsh Government
• Reviewing tenancy agreements (occupation contracts) regularly
• Seeking professional advice before making changes to property management or eviction processes

While the Renters Reform Act is a significant development for landlords in England, Welsh landlords are already operating under a different model. In many ways, the changes across the border reflect what is already standard practice here in Wales.

If you’re unsure how current legislation affects your rental property, our team would be happy to guide you through your responsibilities and ensure your investment remains compliant and secure.