LANDLORD AND TENANT
Landlord Solicitors in Wales
Welsh landlords follow different law from England. We help you stay compliant, draft the right paperwork and recover possession properly when you need to.
Why Welsh law is different
Since 1 December 2022, most private tenancies in Wales are “occupation contracts” under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, not assured shorthold tenancies. Tenants are called “contract-holders”. The rules on paperwork, safety standards, deposits and ending a contract are different from England, and getting them wrong can stop you recovering possession. Landlords must also be registered, and often licensed, with Rent Smart Wales.
How we help landlords
- Occupation contracts. Drafting and issuing the written statement your contract-holder must receive.
- Converting older tenancies so that they comply with Welsh law.
- Possession notices and proceedings, including checking that your notice is valid before you serve it.
- Rent arrears, from the first letter to a court claim.
- Deposit and property condition disputes.
Our landlord guides
- The Renting Homes (Wales) Act: a guide for landlords, with a printable compliance checklist
- Evicting a tenant in Wales: the routes, notice periods and what can go wrong
Our fees
We charge at an hourly rate of £200 + VAT. Our fee guide shows what you can expect to pay for the usual stages, and we will confirm our fees in writing before we start.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register with Rent Smart Wales?
Yes. Landlords of privately rented homes in Wales must register with Rent Smart Wales. Landlords who manage their own properties must also be licensed. Landlords who use a licensed agent to manage do not need their own licence.
Is there a Section 21 notice in Wales?
No. Section 21 does not apply in Wales, and it was also abolished in England on 1 May 2026. In Wales, the no-fault route is a section 173 notice under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which has its own rules and a six-month notice period.
Can I end a tenancy without giving a reason?
In some cases, yes, using a section 173 notice, but only after the first six months of occupation and only if you have met your legal obligations. See our guide to evicting a tenant in Wales.
Useful links
- Rent Smart Wales — landlord registration and licensing
- Deposit Protection Service — an authorised deposit scheme
- Shelter Cymru — free housing advice for tenants
More helpful sites are collected on our useful links page. We are not responsible for the content of other websites. This page gives general information, not legal advice, and is correct as at October 2026.
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Related guides and services
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Sarah Worth