A written contract
Your landlord must give you a written statement of your occupation contract within 14 days of moving in.
Renting Advice
Renting in Cardiff: a renter's guide
Renters in Wales have some of the strongest protections in the UK. Here's what you're entitled to, what a landlord can and can't charge you, who fixes what, and how to rent with confidence in 2026.
Renting in Cardiff in 2026
Demand for rented homes in Cardiff is high - the average private rent has reached around £1,157 a month, up nearly 4% on the year, and good rooms in areas like Cathays and Roath go quickly. That makes it tempting to rush, but it pays to know your rights first.
The good news: since the Renting Homes (Wales) Act, you are a contract-holder with clear legal protections, and most letting fees are banned. This guide covers the essentials so you can spot a good let, avoid the traps, and know exactly where you stand.
Know where you stand
Your rights as a contract-holder
Six protections every renter in Wales has, by law.
A home fit to live in
The property must be fit for human habitation, with working smoke alarms on every storey and a valid electrical safety report.
Your deposit protected
Any deposit must be held in a government-approved scheme, with the details given to you in writing.
No hidden fees
Most fees are banned in Wales. You can only be charged a set list of permitted payments.
Proper notice
A no-fault Section 173 notice needs six months, and cannot be served in your first six months.
Repairs done
Your landlord must keep the structure, services and safety of the home in good repair throughout your contract.
Tap to find out
Repairs: who fixes what?
A common source of confusion. Tap each card to reveal who is usually responsible.
Don't get caught out
Fees: what's banned, what's allowed
Wales banned most letting fees in 2019. If you're asked for anything on the left, push back.
Banned - you should not pay these
- Viewing fees
- Admin / set-up fees
- Inventory fees
- Check-in / check-out fees
- Guarantor fees
- Renewal fees
Permitted payments
- Rent
- A security deposit
- A holding deposit (max one week's rent)
- Council tax & utilities
- Default payments (e.g. late rent, lost keys)
Budget ahead
What you'll pay to move in
Roughly what to have ready. The exact figures depend on the property and the rent.
Holding deposit
Up to 1 week's rentReserves the property; capped by law and usually put towards your first rent or deposit.
Security deposit
Usually ~1 month's rentProtected in an approved scheme; returned at the end, less any agreed deductions.
First month's rent
1 month in advanceNormally paid before or on the day you move in.
Moving on
Ending your contract
On a periodic standard contract, give at least four weeks' notice in writing. In a fixed term, check what your contract allows before the end date.
A no-fault notice needs six months and cannot be served in your first six months - so you have real security if you keep to the contract.
Common questions
Renting in Wales FAQs
What is an occupation contract?
Since the Renting Homes (Wales) Act came into force in December 2022, renters in Wales are 'contract-holders' with an 'occupation contract' rather than tenants with a tenancy. Your landlord must give you a written statement of that contract within 14 days of you moving in.
What fees can a landlord or agent charge me in Wales?
Most fees are banned. You can only be asked for a set list of permitted payments: rent, a security deposit, a holding deposit of no more than one week's rent, council tax and utilities, and default payments such as for late rent or lost keys. Viewing, admin, inventory, check-in, guarantor and renewal fees are all prohibited.
How much notice do I have to give to leave?
For a periodic standard contract you usually need to give at least four weeks' notice in writing. If you are in a fixed term, check what your contract says about leaving early. Your landlord, by contrast, needs six months for a no-fault Section 173 notice.
Who is responsible for repairs?
Your landlord must keep the structure, services such as heating and water, and the safety of the home in repair. You are generally responsible for damage you cause and small day-to-day items like lightbulbs. Report any disrepair in writing and keep a record.
Can my landlord keep my deposit?
Only for genuine, evidenced reasons such as unpaid rent or damage beyond fair wear and tear. Your deposit must be protected in an approved scheme, and you can raise a dispute through that scheme's free resolution service if you disagree with deductions.
Sources & method
Renter rights are based on the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and the Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019, via GOV.WALES and Shelter Cymru. The average rent figure is from the ONS (Cardiff, April 2026). Repair responsibilities and move-in costs are general guidance and depend on your specific contract. Last updated 31 May 2026. This is general information, not legal advice - for a dispute, seek advice from Shelter Cymru or Citizens Advice.
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