Welsh renters given stronger protections against Section 21 evictions

The amendments to the law are permanent and are not related to the eviction protections introduced by the Welsh government for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Section 21 evictions have come under increased criticism in recent years, with many charities and campaign groups arguing that they are a leading cause of homelessness.

The UK government has committed to abolishing section 21 evictions in England, however the housing minister has repeatedly said that legislation will not be introduced until after the pandemic is over.

Welsh housing minister Julie James said: “This law will make renting a home in Wales fair, simple and efficient, and it will directly affect the lives of the one in three people who rent a home in Wales.

“Thanks to our efforts, tenants will have greater peace of mind when renting. Everyone has the right to feel secure in their own home and to be able to plan for the future.

“There will also be clear benefits for landlords. Clearer and easier to understand contracts will reduce disputes and legal costs, and the new regime will provide a better way for landlords to deal with abandoned properties.”

David Wilton, chief executive at TPAS Cymru, said: “Tenants’ views and voices across Wales have helped shape this new law and therefore TPAS Cymru very much welcomes this development, making renting in Wales easier.

“We believe the new contracts make it clearer for tenants and landlords to understand their respective rights and responsibilities.

“We particularly welcome the new protection measures which provide greater security regarding improved notice periods and offer flexibility should tenants’ circumstances change.”