If a tenancy started before 15 January 1989, the tenancy is likely to be a regulated tenancy.
Fair Rent is a way of controlling rent. It is the highest level of rent that has been registered with Rent Officers Wales that a tenant can pay.
There are special rules for changing rent and its terms. If a tenancy started before 15 January 1989, this is likely to be a regulated tenancy. This means that landlords or tenants can apply to register a rent.
Register your rent
Landlords or tenants can register a rent. Landlords can ask Rent Officers Wales to review it every 2 years.
You can review the rent sooner if changes have been made to a property such as repairs or improvements.
To register a rent you must complete the relevant form and send it to Rent Officers Wales.
How fair rents are set
When deciding what would be a fair rent, the rent officer has to consider the circumstances of the case.
- age
- character of the property
- quantity
- quality and condition of the furniture provided
- any service charges that are included
- any disrepair
- other considerations such as lighting, heating, local amenities
Apply for a fair rent
Both landlords and tenants can apply for a fair rent. They must complete the relevant forms and send to Rent Offices Wales.
If your landlord wants to increase your rent
Your landlord must give you written notice if they want to increase your registered rent.
If an increase is agreed, the rent can be backdated to the date of the notice. It cannot be backdated more than 4 weeks or earlier than the date the rent was registered.
If you think your registered rent is too high
Landlords or tenants can appeal against the decision to register a fair rent. You must write to Rent Officers Wales within 28 days of the decision being made.
The registered rent may be considered by the Residential Property Tribunal. They will make the final decision on the rent limit set.