Landlord Licensing – Rent Smart Wales

All Landlords with a rental property in Wales need to be registered with Rent Smart Wales. Rent Smart Wales is the name for the registration and licensing requirements required under Part 1 of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, which is now in force.

So Who Does It Affect?

Every Landlord and Letting/Estate Agent who lets out a residential property in Wales is affected by this legislation. It is a legal requirement for all Landlords to be registered, and those who manage their own properties and Agents who manage on behalf of Landlords need to be licensed. Action is now being taken against Landlords and Agents who do not comply.

Am I A Landlord?

If you own a property that is not your main residence that you receive an income on (however minimal), then you are considered a Landlord, and you need to register with Rent Smart Wales.

Even if you do not have a written contract in place, (such as renting to family or friends), the statutory requirements of an being in an Assured Shorthold Tenancy will still apply and therefore you are classed as a landlord.

If you own a property with someone else, both of you will need to register.

Do I Need A Licence?

Landlords who manage their own properties or have any type of interest in managing the property (such as arranging repairs) will need a licence. This is in addition to registering.

What If I Have A Managed Service?

You will still need to register your details and your property with Rent Smart Wales, but you will not need to obtain a licence. Your Letting Agent is required to have a licence, and every member of their staff will have been required to undertake training in order for the company to have obtained the licence.

How Do I Get A Licence?

Landlords and Agents can upload their information to be registered and/or licensed via the Rent Smart Wales website. The website is informative and easy to use, and is ready for Landlords to register their properties and apply for a licence.

In order to get a licence you will need to ensure you:

• Improved standards of letting and management practice in the private rented sector
• Undertake a day’s training course
• Register each property you rent in Wales
• Register your own details
• Pay a registration fee of £33.50 and if applicable a licence fee of £144.00

Once licences have been obtained they should be valid for 5 years.

What is the aim of Rent Smart Wales?

Rent Smart Wales aims to tackle bad practice and improve standards in the Private Rented Sector, as well as its image.

It is intended that the legislation will result in:

• More information on landlords made available for tenant verification, and for local authorities to use to assist with strategic intervention and dissemination of information
• Raised awareness by landlords and agents of their respective rights and responsibilities
• Raised awareness by tenants of their respective rights and responsibilities

To register yourself as a landlord, please visit the Rent Smart Wales.

If you have any questions about how landlord licensing in Wales affects you, please drop us a call on 01792 430100.