Wales Landlord Obligations - Complete Checklist
Complete checklist of landlord obligations in Wales. Covers Rent Smart Wales, safety requirements, occupation contracts, and ongoing duties.
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Welsh landlords face a range of legal obligations before, during, and after letting a property. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you meet all your legal requirements.
Compliance is Essential
Failure to meet these obligations can prevent you from evicting tenants, result in fines, and lead to rent repayment orders. Stay compliant to protect your investment.
Before Letting
Pre-Letting Checklist
- â˜Rent Smart Wales Registration - Register and obtain licence if self-managing
- â˜Gas Safety Certificate - From a Gas Safe registered engineer
- â˜EICR - Electrical Installation Condition Report
- â˜EPC - Energy Performance Certificate (minimum rating E)
- â˜Smoke Alarms - On each storey, tested and working
- â˜CO Alarms - In rooms with solid fuel appliances or flues
- â˜Fitness Check - Property meets 29 matters of fitness
- â˜Written Statement - Prepare occupation contract
At Start of Tenancy
Move-In Checklist
- â˜Written Statement - Provide within 14 days of occupation
- â˜Gas Certificate Copy - Give to contract-holder
- â˜EPC Copy - Give to contract-holder
- â˜Protect Deposit - Within 30 days in approved scheme
- â˜Prescribed Information - Serve deposit details
- â˜Inventory - Complete and get signed
- â˜How to Rent Wales - Provide Welsh Government guide
- â˜Contact Details - Provide your address and contact info
Next legal step
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Need to act on this now?
- Choose Section 21 or Section 8 with guided prompts
- Build a valid eviction notice in plain English
- Move from advice to action in minutes
During the Tenancy
Ongoing Obligations
- →Maintain Property - Keep fit for human habitation
- →Respond to Repairs - Address issues within reasonable time
- →Give Notice for Access - 24 hours for routine visits
- →Rent Reviews - Follow proper procedures for increases
- →Maintain Registration - Keep Rent Smart Wales current
Annual Requirements
| Requirement | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Safety Check | Annual | Provide copy to tenant |
| EICR | Every 5 years | Or as recommended |
| Smoke Alarm Check | Annual | Test and replace batteries |
| CO Alarm Check | Annual | Test and replace as needed |
| Rent Smart Wales | Every 5 years | Renew before expiry |
End of Tenancy
End of Tenancy Checklist
- â˜Check-Out Inspection - Compare to inventory
- â˜Return Deposit - Within 10 days if no disputes
- â˜Final Meter Readings - Record and notify suppliers
- â˜Collect Keys - Get all keys back
- â˜Council Tax - Notify council of vacancy
Download Compliance Checklists
Landlord Heaven provides downloadable compliance checklists and templates for Welsh landlords.
View Checklist Templates →Landlord Obligations FAQ
What happens if I miss a requirement?
Missing requirements can have serious consequences. You may be unable to evict tenants, face fines from the local authority, or have tenants claim rent repayment orders against you.
Does my agent handle all this?
If you use a managing agent, they typically handle many obligations. However, you remain legally responsible as landlord. Ensure your agent is licensed with Rent Smart Wales and check they're completing all requirements.
Are there different rules for HMOs?
Yes. HMOs have additional requirements including HMO licensing, fire safety measures, and specific management regulations. All standard landlord obligations also apply.
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