Gillian’s diary: A whistlestop tour meeting Welsh landlords

It’s been a busy month for our Wales representative, Gill Owens. She’s attended eight landlord forums across the country, myth busting on the Renters’ Rights Act, talking to you about your concerns for the future and sharing our work during this critical phase for the private rented sector (PRS) in Wales. 

"With the Senedd elections at the beginning of May and a new Welsh Government confirmed, many of you wanted to know how this would affect the PRS going forward. There was significant concern that we may see the introduction of rent controls, and lots of chatter about bringing pet ownership rules more closely in line with those in England. 

A number of landlords I spoke to were particularly worried about being compliant with the Renters' Rights Act, not realising that the vast majority of it only applies to England. The only aspect of the legislation that applies in Wales is the anti-discrimination section, which comes into force in Wales on 1st June.  

“This prevents landlords from refusing to rent to prospective tenants on the basis that they have children or are in receipt of benefits, in addition to the existing equalities legislation. As part of the change, landlords must issue tenants with a formal one page statement of variation to their occupation contract, by 14th June. 

Hot topic

"Changes to minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) were also a hot topic and particularly the forthcoming £10,000 cost cap on meeting an EPC C. Wales has the oldest housing stock in the UK and the average EPC rating is D. I told those concerned about the cost of reaching a C rating to make sure they look first at all the lower-cost options – such as excluding draughts, LED lighting, and upgrading loft insulation.  

"From the very end of April through May I spoke at forums in Bridgend, Carmarthenshire, Torfaen, Conwy, Flintshire, Swansea, Cardiff, and Caerphilly. What I love about these events is getting to know you all personally after all the speeches and talks, and in particular finding out about your personal journeys into the PRS – as well, of course, as putting your mind at ease where I can.  

I'll be on the road again at the Neath and Port Talbot Council Landlord Forum on 2nd June. The event starts at 4pm at Neath Civic Centre. We will be talking about MEES and the impact a change in the Senedd may have on the PRS in Wales. You can register by emailing [email protected] — see you there!"