Press release on Rent Smart Wales Scheme

Mike Hedges AM welcomes Rent Smart Wales Scheme

Mike Hedges AM welcome the Rent Smart Wales scheme, the brand for the new landlord and agent registration and licensing scheme which comes into effect this autumn.

Mike said….. I welcome this initiative which will help improve standards in the private rented sector. For too long rogue landlords have been able to operate with impunity and redress for tenants has been exceedingly difficult. This new scheme will mean Private Landlords will have to register and receive training on their responsibilities to tenants. Tenants should see an improvement in service they receive from landlords as a result of this Bill.

The Housing (Wales) Act 2014 aims to improve letting and management standards for people who rent private accommodation across Wales. The legislation means Wales will become the first country in the UK where managing landlords and agents will need to undertake training to ensure they are aware of their rights and responsibilities.

From this autumn:

• all private landlords will be required to register with Rent Smart Wales. They will also have to register their properties


if a landlord wants to manage the property themselves, they must demonstrate they are ‘fit and proper’ to hold a licence, and undertake training


alternatively, they will be able to appoint a licensed agent to manage the property on their behalf.

Further information can be found here.