Housing disrepair claims in Wales
Written and reviewed by the RemedyBridge team · Last reviewed June 2026
Quick answer
In Wales, renting is governed largely by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which requires homes to be fit for human habitation and sets out landlords’ repairing obligations to “contract-holders”. If your landlord has not addressed serious repairs after being told, a specialist may be able to review a claim.
Key points
- The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 replaced much of the older tenancy framework in Wales.
- Most renters are “contract-holders” with occupation contracts rather than traditional tenancies.
- Homes must be fit for human habitation, which includes addressing serious hazards.
- Welsh councils and advice services can help with unresolved repairs.
The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
Wales has a distinct legal framework. The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 introduced “occupation contracts” and “contract-holders”, and sets out the landlord’s obligations to keep the dwelling in repair and fit for human habitation (FFHH).
Fitness for human habitation in Wales
The FFHH requirements in Wales include matters such as freedom from serious hazards. If your home has unresolved damp, leaks, electrical or structural problems, these may be relevant — keep records of what you reported and when.
Where to get help in Wales
- Use your landlord’s complaints procedure first.
- Contact your landlord about serious hazards.
- Get free advice from a free local advice service.
You may not need us — free routes first
You can often resolve repairs for free. Depending on your situation you may be able to:
- report repairs to your landlord in writing and keep a dated copy;
- use your landlord’s formal complaints process;
- take dated photos and keep a record of what you reported and when;
- give your landlord a reasonable chance to put things right.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the law the same as in England?
- No. While the broad idea of landlord repairing duties is similar, Wales has its own legislation (the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016) and terminology. Make sure any advice you rely on is specific to Wales.
RemedyBridge provides a free initial check for housing disrepair problems in England & Wales. The result is a guide only and never tells you that you definitely have a claim. Checking your situation is free.
Not sure where you stand?
Take the free, anonymous check — no personal details needed to start.
Check your situation