Changes to renters’ rights in Wales – what it means for you

From 1st June 2026, there are changes to renters’ rights in Wales. These updates strengthen your rights and make sure everyone is treated fairly in their home.

You may have already received a letter from us explaining what’s changing. This page gives a simple overview and answers some common questions.

What’s changing?

You may have heard that the Renters’ Rights Act was recently introduced in England.

While the law in Wales is different, as we follow the Renting Homes (Wales) Act, some elements of these changes now apply to occupation contracts in Wales.

As your landlord, we’ve updated your occupation contract (tenancy agreement) to reflect these changes.

The updated terms make clear in law that residents should not be treated differently because they receive benefits or have children living with them or visiting their home.

This is already standard practice for us as a community landlord, and these changes simply make this clearer and consistent in law.

These updates apply to all existing and new contracts.

What this means for you

For most customers, nothing will change day to day.

However, these updates make sure your rights are clearer and protected in law.

If your home is currently suitable for children, this will continue to be the case.

Some restrictions may still apply where there is a clear reason, such as:

• if a home would become overcrowded
• if the property is designed for a specific group (for example, older persons’ housing)
• for health, safety or specialist housing reasons

What happens next?

We will contact you by 14th June 2026 to confirm the changes.

We will either:

• provide a new copy of your contract, or
• send a written summary explaining what has changed

Do you need to do anything?

No.

The changes happen automatically, and you do not need to sign or agree to anything.

You should continue to let us know about any changes to your household, such as someone moving in.

Frequently asked questions

Can children move in with me now?

This depends on your home and your situation.

If there are already restrictions in place (for example because of the size or type of your home), these will stay the same.

Do I need to tell you if someone moves in?

Yes.

You should continue to let us know about any significant changes to your household, including children or other people moving in long-term.

Could I be moved or downsized because of this change?

No.

Your contract has the same protections as before, and this change will not affect your tenancy in that way.

Can I still apply for housing or swap homes if I have children?

Yes.

This is already standard practice. We would only limit this where a property is not suitable for your household.

What if I think I’m being treated unfairly?

Please contact us so we can look into this for you.

You can also get independent advice from Shelter Cymru if needed.

Can benefits still affect decisions about my tenancy?

As your landlord, we cannot treat you unfairly because you receive benefits.

We may still carry out affordability checks, but these will always look at all your income fairly.

Need more information?

If you have any questions about these changes, please get in touch with us.