What is a Rent Smart Wales licence?
A licence is required for landlords to rent any property in Wales. You apply and are provided with this licence through your local authority and there are certain conditions you and the property must meet as part of the licence requirements.
Who needs a licence?
Landlords not involved in setting up tenancies and managing their rental properties do not require a licence however they must:
- Complete a landlord registration; AND
- Appoint a licensed agent to conduct letting and management activities.
Landlords who undertake letting and management tasks at their rental properties must:
- Complete a landlord registration; AND
- Apply for a Rent Smart Wales licence themselves
What types of licence exist?
Landlords and Agents in Wales must have a licence and depending on the situation both may need a licence to manage the same property. Landlord in Wales may also need another licence such as a HMO licence depending on certain conditions the property meets.
How do I apply for a licence?
You will need to apply through Rent Smart Wales for a licence https://rentsmart.gov.wales/en/licensing/
How do I ensure I meet the requirements set by my licence?
Landlords in Wales must complete a training course as part of their licence requirements - the NRLA offer this course and details can be found here RSW licence training. They must also make sure they meet the requirements of their licence which may include completing checks such as a Fire Risk Assessment and PAT testing. We recommend using Safe2rent for your property safety certificates https://www.nrla.org.uk/services/property-compliance/safe2rent
Where can I find more information?
For more information please use the following links
Rent Smart Wales Licencing general information
Where can I find training on this topic?
The NRLA offer a multitude of courses for our members to increase their knowledge and improve their skills as a landlord. You can find training on many topics impacting landlords in Wales such as Rent Smart Wales, Renting Homes Wales Act (2016), HMO, Fire Safety, Property standards and PAT testing. You can attend these courses in a classroom, eClassroom or eLearning depending on your preference.