Supporting Private Renters: sharing the tenant voice on no-fault evictions

Hi everyone, I’m Eleanor and have recently taken over the Policy Lead role at TPAS Cymru.

Yesterday, I attended a workshop with the Welsh Government to discuss their response to a report by the Local Government and Housing Committee. This report focuses on the Private Rental Sector (PRS) and outlines 13 recommendations for policy improvements.

One key focus of the workshop was Recommendation 6, which proposes that tenants facing a no-fault eviction should be allowed to retain the last two months’ rent of their tenancy as compensation for the financial and wellbeing impact of a forced move.

We joined Welsh Government officials and other organisations from across the housing sector at the workshop to share perspectives. TPAS Cymru made sure to bring forward the voices of tenants, drawing from our Tenant Pulse and wider listening work.

The conversation: Landlord vs. Tenant Perspectives

Landlord organisations argued that this recommendation is unnecessary. They shared that landlords are already facing increased costs, such as meeting new EPC requirements for energy efficiency. They also feel that the focus should be on incentivising good landlords, rather than implementing policies that might discourage investment in the PRS.

On the other hand, tenant-focused organisations, including TPAS Cymru, highlighted that moving is expensive. This recommendation would ease the financial burden on tenants who are forced to move. If implemented, it could also be an important step in preventing homelessness and support tenants when looking for a property. Many tenants report to us that they end up paying ‘double rent’ the last month of their tenancy, and this recommendation would prevent that.

What does TPAS Cymru think?

From our latest Tenant Pulse research, we know that twice as many tenants in 2024, compared to 2023, want to stay in their homes for the long term. Many tenants do not expect or plan for a move, and report having little to no savings, so this recommendation could offer essential financial support.

However, we do have some concerns. How would this recommendation affect private renters who pay rent through benefits? We will seek further clarification on this.

What would the impact be on student renters? This is another key area we plan to raise with the Welsh Government. Many PRS tenants have low savings, and we believe this measure could provide vital financial relief at a difficult time.

What do you think?

As always, TPAS Cymru is here to represent your views. What do you think about this proposal? Would it make a difference to renters in Wales?

Join us on this conversation and share your views. If you would like to speak with us about this, email [email protected].  And don’t forget to keep an eye on our social media channels for more policy updates.

Diolch.