The Welsh Government’s registration and licensing scheme, Rent Smart Wales, will launch on 23rd November.
The Welsh Government previously announced that the scheme would begin in the autumn, but the exact date has now been revealed.
Under Part 1 of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, landlords must be registered and letting agents must be licensed. Landlords and agents can start applying on 23rd November and they have 12 months to comply with the new law.
The Welsh Government states that in its first year, Rent Smart Wales will focus on raising awareness of the new requirements and encouraging compliance.
It hopes to improve the private rental sector in the country and benefit those renting privately by tackling any rogue landlords.
Following the launch, the next year will see landlords registering with the scheme, and some may consider licensing themselves, or commissioning a licensed agent to manage their properties. Landlords can choose to do both, meaning that they are licensed to let their homes.
If you have properties in Wales, find out all you need to know here: https://www.rentsmart.gov.wales/en/