Being a landlord in Wales has changed significantly in recent years, and 2026 is no different. With increasing legislation and stricter enforcement, staying compliant is no longer optional. Mistakes can lead to fines, delays, or even being unable to regain possession of your property. At Conrad Estate Agents, we’re seeing more landlords caught out simply because they’re unaware of the latest requirements.
Here’s what you need to know.
📜 Renting Homes (Wales) Act – Still Catching Landlords Out
The Renting Homes (Wales) Act has fundamentally changed how tenancies work.
Key points include:
- ASTs replaced with Occupation Contracts.
- Strict rules around issuing contracts
- Specific timelines for documentation
If handled incorrectly, you may:
- Lose the ability to serve notice.
- Face legal delays
- Be non-compliant
🔥 Electrical & Fire Safety Is Non-Negotiable
Landlords must ensure:
- Electrical safety checks are up to date.
- Smoke alarms are correctly installed.
- Carbon monoxide detectors are in place where required.
Failure here isn’t just a compliance issue; it’s a serious safety risk.
🏠 Fitness for Human Habitation (FFHH)
This is a major enforcement area.
Properties must be:
- Safe
- Free from serious hazards
- Properly maintained
Common issues include:
- Damp and mould
- Poor ventilation
- Heating problems
Tenants now have stronger rights to challenge these.
📊 EPC & Energy Efficiency
Energy performance is becoming more important each year.
While regulations continue to evolve, landlords should already be:
- Monitoring EPC ratings
- Planning improvements
- Future-proofing properties
This isn’t just compliance; it impacts tenant demand and rental value.
📅 Notice Periods & Possession Rules
Serving notice is no longer straightforward.
Errors in:
- Documentation
- Compliance
- Timing
Can result in:
👉 Notices being invalid
👉 Delays of several months
👉 Financial loss
👉 Notices being invalid
👉 Delays of several months
👉 Financial loss
🚨 The Risk of Getting It Wrong
We’re seeing an increasing number of landlords:
- Unable to regain possession
- Facing unexpected costs
- Dealing with avoidable legal issues
Often, it comes down to small compliance mistakes.
📊 Our Advice
Ask yourself:
- Are all your documents up to date?
- Are you fully compliant with Welsh legislation?
- Would your paperwork stand up in court?
If you’re unsure, you’re not alone.
📞 Need Help Staying Compliant?
At Conrad Estate Agents, we ensure landlords are:
- Fully compliant
- Protected legally
- Managing their properties correctly
👉 Get in touch today for a free compliance check and landlord review.
