A concerning survey of tenants in Wales suggests that a remarkably high number do not know about the new Rent Smart Wales initiative to register and license all landlords and letting agents within the country.
Data from a report from the National Landlords Association reveals that two-thirds of tenants claim they are unaware of the scheme, which came into force yesterday.
Low
The Rent Smart Wales scheme, mandatory for landlords and agents, requires training, registration and licensing. Both agents and landlords have 12 months in which to comply with the new regulations.
Despite tenants stating that the scheme would make them more confident about the private rental sector and improve the quality of stock, 65% said they were unaware of the initiative.
Without proper resources to enforce the legislation, the NLA warns that the scheme will become ineffective, especially after the first-year introductory period.
Working together
‘As the licensing authority, Cardiff city council must start working with other local authorities from the outset in order to fine and prosecute those who fail to comply within the year’s grace period,’ said NLA chief executive Richard Lambert. ‘Without proper enforcement the scheme will do nothing to stop criminals in the sector but as yet we’ve seen no detail about how Cardiff plans to do this.’[1]
‘Unless they’re quick off the mark, come next November, there’s a real danger that Rent Smart Wales will amount to little more than just a list of names and it will quickly lose the confidence of tenants who expect it to make a difference,’ he added.[1]
[1] https://www.lettingagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2015/11/who-actually-know-about-rent-smart-wales-not-many-it-seems—