Rent Cases – Wales

In Wales, the Rent Assessment Committees and Rent Tribunals comprise lawyers, valuers and lay persons who will consider appeals over rent levels and fix appropriate rents where there is dispute between landlord and contract-holder in the Private Rented Sector. The Committee hears appeals against rent levels determined by the Rent Officer for regulated tenancies and sets a fair rent. The Committee also hear appeals for assured tenancies however The Renting Homes Wales (2016) act currently does not have an appeals mechanism for occupation contracts and is awaiting potential future legislation changes regarding rent levels set by landlords.

In Wales, the Residential Property Tribunal. The Committee hears appeals against rent levels determined by the Rent Officer for regulated tenancies and sets a fair rent. They look at leasehold disputes and cases around leases, service charges, lease extensions and tenant association applications.  Thirdly they hear cases on residential matters of Empty, interim and final dwelling management orders, Licensing of houses in multiple occupation and selective licensing of other residential property, Housing, health and safety rating system, Park homes and Local authority gypsy and traveller sites.

The Residential Property Tribunal, its members and decisions are independent of Government. Administrative support and funding for the tribunal is provided by the Welsh Government.  There is no appeal against a committee’s decision except on a point of law. There are fees involved in some, but not all, applications. It is important that you check their guidance booklet when making an application on fees and waiver guidance.