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We can run workshops for young people on any of the topic areas covered in our resources.

In the one-to-one workshops we are able to go into more depth on an issue, providing guidance based on the individual's needs.

For more information contact Bethan Wilson, Development Officer, Children in Wales. bethan.wilson@childreninwales.org.uk

Gallwn ni gynnal gweithdai i bobl ifanc ar unrhyw rai o’r meysydd pwnc sy’n cael sylw yn ein hadnoddau.

Yn y gweithdai un-i-un byddwn ni’n gallu edrych yn fanylach ar rywbeth, a rhoi arweiniad ar sail anghenion yr unigolyn.

I gael rhagor o wybodaeth, cysylltwch â Bethan Wilson, Swyddog Datblygu, Plant yng Nghymru. bethan.wilson@childreninwales.org.uk

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If you fall behind with your rent, or your landlord believes you or someone else in your household has been acting in an anti-social way, you are at risk of being evicted.

There are things you can do to try and stop the eviction, but you must act quickly.

Always speak to your landlord first. You might be able to come to an agreement about repaying your rent, or perhaps agree a mediation session to sort out any problems you are having with neighbours.

If your rent arrears are a result of a delay in your benefit claim your landlord might be able to help get things sorted for you.

If your housing benefit or universal credit housing costs do not cover all of your rent, you may be able to apply for a discretionary housing payment from the council.

For lots of ideas about what other things you can do to try and avoid being evicted, click here.

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If you fall behind with your rent, or your landlord believes you or someone else in your household has been acting in an anti-social way, you are at risk of being evicted. There are things you can do to try and stop the eviction, but you must act quickly.

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Find local Housing Associations/ Dod o hyd i Gymdeithasau Tai lleol

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Find local Housing Associations/ Dod o hyd i Gymdeithasau Tai lleol

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Community Housing Cymru is the membership body for housing associations in Wales.

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This section explains who is eligible for council housing, how to apply, and how the council decides who to house first. In most areas, these rules also apply to people applying for a housing association property in the area, and to existing council or housing association tenants who want a transfer.

If you need housing immediately (for example if your current home is unsafe, or you are homeless) the council may have a duty to help you immediately. You should tell them that you want to apply as homeless as well as applying for a permanent home.

The system councils use to assess applications for housing is often referred to as the 'allocations scheme' or 'housing register'. Procedures vary from one area to another, but all councils have to follow certain rules.

The rules explained here apply both to people applying for council housing for the first time, and to existing council tenants who want a transfer. You can get application forms and information from the housing department of your local council or from their website.

Use the Gov.uk search to find details of your local council.

Many councils in Wales have transferred their housing to housing associations.

If you want to get housing association accommodation, you will have to apply to go on a waiting list. Housing association homes are in short supply, so it can be difficult to get one and you will probably have to wait for some time.

In most areas, there is a central waiting list for all council and housing association properties, but some housing associations also keep their own separate waiting lists. Contact housing associations in your area to find out how to apply - you can find their details using the Community Housing Cymru website.

Make sure you also apply for an allocation through your local council. You can get application forms and information from the housing department of your local council or from their website. Use the Gov.uk search to find details of your local council.

Some councils and housing associations have Accessible Housing Registers. These registers aim to :

identify people who might need an adapted or accessible property

identify potential accessible properties in their area

match the person with a suitable property.

Finding a suitable property can be difficult. Make sure you explain what your access needs and other requirements are so that the council or housing association can do their best to match you with something suitable. Be prepared to wait as there is a shortage of accessible housing.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission have published a guide Your rights to accessible and adaptable housing in Wales which might give you some tips and help on applying for accessible properties.

Not all areas operate Accessible Housing Registers so it is best to check with your council or housing association. Have a look at our page on Housing for people with special requirements for more advice.
We are sorry that we cannot provide this information in Welsh, however if you would like to speak to an adviser in Welsh please contact 08000 495 495.

You can ask the council for information and advice on how to apply. All councils are required by law to provide free information on:

how to make an application

who is eligible to be considered for housing

how priority between applicants will be decided

the procedures it will follow when it looks at your application

what will happen when a suitable property becomes available.

Most councils will provide a leaflet explaining how their system works.

Councils also have a legal responsibility to help you if you find it difficult to apply. This could be, for example, if English is your second language or you have reading difficulties. They should provide you with an application form in a different format if you request it (for example, in braille, large print or by audio). If they refuse to do this, or you are not happy with the way the council deals with your application, get help from a Shelter Cymru adviser.

The information you include on your application form helps the council decide:

The application form should allow you to explain in detail any special needs, difficulties or problems you or your family have. For example, if you have mobility problems.

You should also be able to include relevant information about overcrowding, disrepair, medical problems or disability, violence or harassment.

Most application forms will ask for:

the name, age and gender of everyone in your household, and how they are related to you

your income, and the income of any joint applicants

where you currently live, and what facilities and conditions are like there

where you have been living (usually over the past 5 years)

whether you have any connections with the area, such as living, working or having family in the area

the type of housing you need, including size, location and facilities.

Although some of the information may seem private, it is worth including as it may mean that you get extra priority. Enclose copies of any evidence that you have (such as photographs, letters from your doctor or other health professionals, or police incident reports) and take photocopies of everything before you hand it in.

It is normally possible for two or more people to apply jointly, for example, if they are a married couple, civil partners, or living together. Applying for a joint tenancy has its pros and cons, so you should get advice before deciding whether to do so. If the council offers you a joint tenancy it would mean that:

if you split up, neither of you can be forced to leave without a court order. You would have equal rights to live in the property until the court decides what should happen to your home

each of you would be individually responsible for paying the rent and not breaking the tenancy agreement. This means that you could be held liable if the other joint tenant doesn't pay her/his share of the rent, or causes nuisance to the neighbours.

If the council decides not to accept your application to go on its waiting list, it must write to you and explain the legal reasons for its decision. If you don't have an address (for example if you are sleeping on the streets), you can collect the decision letter from the council's offices.

You should get advice immediately as it may be possible to:

ask the council to review their decision (there is a time limit to do this)

reapply when your circumstances have changed (for example if you have a history of rent arrears but you have since paid them off).

The application form may ask you to select which parts of the council's area you want to live. Choosing more areas gives you a better chance of getting a council or housing association home.

You can apply to any council you choose. You do not have to be living in their area to apply. However, councils are allowed to give extra priority to people who already live in their area.

Some councils run choice based lettings schemes. The council advertises available properties and you can bid for the property if it suits your needs and is in an area you want to live.

Other councils offer properties directly. Take a look at our page on Getting an offer for more details.

Bear in mind that there is usually a longer wait in popular areas.

In most areas, the council will send you a letter each year, asking if you still want to be considered for housing. If you don't reply, your name might be removed from the waiting list.

You should also inform the council if your circumstances change, for example if you have a new child or have moved home. Changes in your circumstances may affect how much priority you get.

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Council and housing association waiting lists - Shelter Cymru

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This section explains who is eligible for council housing, how to apply, and how the council decides who to house first. In most areas, these rules also apply to people applying for a housing association property in the area, and to existing council or housing association tenants who want a transfer.

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Not all housing association tenants have the same protection from eviction. The type of tenancy agreement you have will affect many of your rights, including how and when the housing association can evict you, how your rent can be increased and whether you can pass your tenancy on.

Housing associations provide secure, assured, assured shorthold and starter tenancies or they can apply to the courts to demote your tenancy. They should give you a written tenancy agreement, which says clearly what type of tenancy you have, and outlines your rights and responsibilities.

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Housing association tenancies - Shelter Cymru

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Not all housing association tenants have the same protection from eviction. The type of tenancy agreement you have will affect many of your rights, including how and when the housing association can evict you, how your rent can be increased and whether you can pass your tenancy on.

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Use the Turn2us Grants Search to find out which grants you may be eligible for.

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If you have been in care at any time in the past and you are aged 17 - 25 years old, you can apply for a grant from The Capstone Care Leavers' Trust.

Even if you have had a leaving care grant, or financial support from any other Local Authority department, you can still apply to the CCLT if you have less money than you need to buy essential household items, or pay for something that will contribute to your educational and personal development, that cannot be funded by any other means.

You can apply more than once, however, you must wait 12 months before re-applying if you have already received a grant from us.

If your application is unsuccessful, you can re-apply if there is a change in your circumstances. You do not have to wait 12 months.

Grants are given for use by the applicant only.
PLEASE NOTE: It is your responsibility to keep us informed of any change to your contact details. Please read below Grants can only be considered where the applicant meets the eligibility criteria and funds are available to meet the request. Please Note: The Capstone Care Leavers Trust (CCLT) is a charity in England and Wales. As such its Trustees are free to make, or refuse grants within its officially registered areas of operation. A refusal is usually made with regret and often with explanation and/or advice. We are prepared to listen if you have got evidence that we have got something wrong. However, the Trustees' decisions, usually communicated through the Manager, are final.
If, after several attempts we are unable to contact you by phone, text or email, any time after you have submitted an application, your application will close.

Any applicant that cannot be contacted, or who does not respond to emails, texts, or voice messages from CCLT within 4 weeks of being informed of a grant being agreed by the Trustees, will unfortunately lose the award, unless an extenstion of time has been previously agreed.

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Eligibility Criteria - Capstone Care Leavers Trust

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If you have been in care at any time in the past and you are aged 17 - 25 years old, you can apply for a grant from The Capstone Care Leavers' Trust.

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St Davids Day Fund/ Cronfa Dydd Gwyl Dewi

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St Davids Day Fund/ Cronfa Dydd Gwyl Dewi

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The St David's Day fund is money that you can ask for to help with your health and wellbeing, development and independence.

It isn't instead of other money you can get, it is extra support and does not have be paid back.

What can you use the money for?

You can use it for things like equipment to help you learn, taking part in activities or enjoying a hobby, or furniture for your home.

Who can get the money?

There are some rules about who the local authority can give the money to but it includes young people in lots of different situations, like:

young people looked after aged 16 or 17

care leavers under 18

care leavers aged 18 or over

young people who have left care but get back in touch with the local authority because they want to go back to education or training

young people who left care under a Special Guardianship Order

young people aged between 21-24 who are not in education or training but need help with money to live on their own

Make sure you ask

Ask your social worker or personal advisor for information about how the St David's Day fund works in your Local Authority and whether in your situation you can apply.

Don't miss out by not asking!

Things to ask

Ask your social worker or personal advisor what you can apply for, if they can give you examples of how others have used it and whether there is anything you cannot use it for.

You might also want to ask if they have any written information about it that you can take away to read, or if they can send you a link to online information.

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St David's Day fund - Children's Commissioner for Wales

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The St David's Day fund is money that you can ask for to help with your health and wellbeing, development and independence. It isn't instead of other money you can get, it is extra support and does not have be paid back.

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The VRF (Vicar's Relief Fund) provides crisis grants to individuals at risk of, or currently experiencing, homelessness. Our grants are open to all 4 Nations of the UK and must be applied for via frontline workers. We consider up to £350 to prevent eviction, and up to £500 to help access accommodation.
Registering and applying for a grant:
We are now open for grant application submissions Monday-Friday 9am-12pm, excluding bank holidays.

We do not accept applications from individuals directly. If you are a paid frontline worker, supporting people at risk of, or currently experiencing homelessness, you can apply to us on behalf of the individuals you are supporting.

Before you can submit a grant application on behalf of someone you are supporting, you need to apply for a user account with us, via our flexi-grant portal.

To begin this, scroll down and click on the 'register' button at the bottom of this page. After verifying your email address, you will then need to complete a New User Registration form. You will not be able to begin a grant application until this has been submitted, checked, and approved by our team. We aim to process the forms within 5 working days.

If you have already set up your email address and password, click the 'login' button at the bottom of the page to access your account.

For more information relating to our grants and how to register or apply for a grant, please visit our help page.

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The VRF (Vicar's Relief Fund) provides crisis grants to individuals at risk of, or currently experiencing, homelessness. Our grants are open to all 4 Nations of the UK and must be applied for via frontline workers. We consider up to £350 to prevent eviction, and up to £500 to help access accommodation.

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Already know what grant you're looking for?

Please note, with the exception of Boarding School Fees, all applications must be made by a referrer on your behalf.

Please note that Buttle UK's grant giving is based on available funding. These funds may become exhausted towards the end of the financial year and this could be nationwide or in certain areas. If an application is submitted after funding has ceased for the year, you will receive an email to inform you of this. Your application will be assessed in April unless you inform us otherwise.

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Please note, with the exception of Boarding School Fees, all applications must be made by a referrer on your behalf. Please note that Buttle UK's grant giving is based on available funding. These funds may become exhausted towards the end of the financial year and this could be nationwide or in certain areas.

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Emergency Assistance Payment: coronavirus hardship

Between 1 May 2020 to 31 March 2023, you can get no more than 5 grants in a year (rolling 12 months).

Use this service to:

apply for an Emergency Assistance Payment

apply for an Individual Assistance Payment

apply on behalf of someone else (registered partners only)

Before you start

You cannot apply for a grant if you have:

already received a grant in the last 28 days

already received 3 grants in the last year (5 grants including coronavirus applications)

You can also apply by:

post

phone 0800 859 5924 (between 9.30am to 4.00pm Monday to Friday) (Croesawir galwadau yn Gymraeg / Calls are welcomed in Welsh)

getting help from one of our partner organisations

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Between 1 May 2020 to 31 March 2023, you can get no more than 5 grants in a year (rolling 12 months).

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Home

I'm a tenant

I'm about to start a tenancy

What is deposit protection?

Tenancy deposit protection was introduced by the Government in April 2007 for all assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales where a deposit was taken. The aim is to make sure you're treated fairly at the end of your tenancy. Your landlord or letting agent have a number of legal obligations, as set out in the Housing Act 2004, that they need to fulfil to ensure your deposit is protected lawfully and you're notified of this.

Find out more about tenancy deposit protection .

Types of protection schemes

We provide two types of deposit protection - Custodial, a free service where we hold the deposit for the duration of the tenancy, and Insured, where the landlord or letting agent holds the deposit and pays us a fee to protect it.

Most of our customers use our free Custodial service. In this scheme, your landlord or letting agent gives us your deposit to look after for the duration of your tenancy. At the end of your tenancy, we'll release your deposit once both of you have agreed on the amounts being returned.

Our Insured scheme is a little different - your landlord or letting agent will keep your deposit for the duration of the tenancy and pay us a small fee to protect it. They'll be responsible for returning your deposit to you at the end of your tenancy, but don't worry, your deposit is protected for the duration of the tenancy, and the full deposit amount will be available at the end of the tenancy.

My deposit is protected. What happens next? ›

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Home I'm a tenant I'm about to start a tenancy What is deposit protection? Tenancy deposit protection was introduced by the Government in April 2007 for all assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales where a deposit was taken. The aim is to make sure you're treated fairly at the end of your tenancy.

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Right to access my home/ Hawl i gael mynediad i’m cartref

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Right to access my home/ Hawl i gael mynediad i’m cartref

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A common query for any landlord is their right to access their property once it has been let - especially as you are legally obliged to maintain the buildings and provide a decent standard of accommodation. The tenant has the right to live there free from 'excessive demands' for access, so respecting their privacy and trying to accommodate their schedule will help keep things amicable and legal.

This brief overview aims to clarify your landlord rights.

Give 24-hours' notice

Any visit to a tenanted property requires a minimum of 24 hours' notice, in writing, under the Housing Act 1988.

The Act also states that any visits must take place at 'reasonable' times of day so the tenant can be present or arrange for a third party to be there, if they wish.

Notice can be in the form of a letter or email, but not SMS text. Backing up a letter with an email is also good practice.

Routine checks also require written notice, even when scheduled within a tenancy agreement.

Exceptions to this are where a contract clause exists for the landlord to provide a room-cleaning service or, in the event of an emergency, you can access the property to carry out repairs immediately.

What if the tenant prevents access?

Try to rearrange the appointment, if, after the required 24 hours' written notice, the tenant objects or says the proposed time is not convenient.

If they still refuse access, cancel the visit, but to write to them indicating the possible implications, such as liability being placed on them for any repairs that you are unable to carry out as a result.

What about access at the end of the tenancy?

Property inspections and viewings by prospective new tenants may be conducted after notice has been served by either party - only within the last 28 days of the agreement and still with the minimum 24 hours' prior written notice.

A final consideration...

Once your tenant is in place and you have established a relationship, don't fall into the trap of thinking you can become more informal. Always follow the legislation to prevent any misunderstandings with your tenant and potential liability for prosecution.

If you have any doubts about your rights please seek the advice of a lettings professional. Contact your local Your Move branch

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Accessing a tenanted property - what are your rights as a Landlord?

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A common query for any landlord is their right to access their property once it has been let - especially as you are legally obliged to maintain the buildings and provide a decent standard of accommodation. The tenant has the right to live there free from 'excessive demands' for access, so respecting their privacy and trying to accommodate their schedule will help keep thing...

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The responsibility for gas safety in a rented property lies with the landlord but tenants should also be aware of the laws and regulations so that they understand what to expect. For example, landlords are required to have an annual gas safety check carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer, but, landlords are not always required to install carbon monoxide alarms.

You can find out more about appropriate gas safety regulations for rentals below.

Gas safety for landlords

Staying on top of the gas safety in a property you're renting out may seem like extra hassle but as a landlord you have a number of responsibilities to take into consideration. Cutting corners on gas safety in your properties can have serious impacts, so it pays to understand what your obligations are.

To take some of the headache away we've pulled together a guide on everything you need to know about gas safety in a rented property here.

Gas safety for tenants

When you move into a rented property your landlord must provide you with a Landlord's Gas Safety Record. Unchecked and badly maintained gas appliances pose a potentially lethal risk to your safety and health due to risk of fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.

As a tenant it's important that you understand what your landlord is responsible for. You can find out about your rights on our page about gas safety for tenants.

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Gas safety in rented properties. Landlord and Tenant Guides - Gas Safe Register

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The responsibility for gas safety in a rented property lies with the landlord but tenants should also be aware of the laws and regulations so that they understand what to expect.

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What do you do if your landlord has taken a disliking to you - not because of what you do in your own home, but because of who you are? If your landlord is discriminating against you because of your race, sexuality or gender, you don't have to put up with it.

Is it illegal for landlords to discriminate against students?

Stereotypes about students being noisy or causing their neighbours difficulty can lead some letting agents and landlords to operate ' no student' policies. Young people who claim benefits can also be turned away. Unfortunately, this is legal. A landlord is entitled to turn someone down based on their financial circumstances, as it's riskier to let to someone who doesn't earn a regular wage.

What about for race, nationality, sexuality or gender?

This is illegal. Very illegal. This includes renting a property to you on worse terms than other tenants, treating you differently from other tenants when it comes to using the property's facilities, or charging you higher rent than other tenants.

What about if I'm disabled?

Equally, refusing to make reasonable adjustments to a property that would allow a disabled person to live there is classed as discrimination.

Can my landlord just turn up unannounced?

No. They can't just turn up on your doorstep and let themselves in. You're entitled to 24 hours' notice. If you don't respond, the landlord should let you know the time and date when they'll be entering the property.

If they do visit without warning you, or at an unreasonable hour, you may have a claim for harassment. This is also true if your landlord refuses to complete repairs, threatens you into leaving, or disconnects the gas, water or electricity.

Can my landlord tell me how to live?

Your landlord can't have excessive control on your lifestyle because you have a right to something called quiet enjoyment. A clause in your contract saying you can't have parties or guests is likely to be considered unfair. That said, a clause that says you can't disturb your neighbours would be acceptable.

If your landlord lives in the same property as you some of these rules may not apply.

What do I do if I think my landlord is discriminating against me?

It's important that you feel safe and comfortable in the place you call home. If you don't because your landlord's clearly being discriminatory towards you, it's essential you speak to someone about their behaviour. This isn't easy, especially if you're new to renting.

"The challenge for young people is that it might be their first experience renting, so they may not know their rights," says Susan Nash from Shelter.

Knowing your rights on discrimination, or speaking to someone about them if you're unsure, will put you in a better position if you do choose to take action. The Shelter helpline and the Equality Advisory Service offer advice and support, or drop into your student union advice centre.

How can I prove it?

While discrimination is certainly alive and well in the private renting sector, it may be hard to prove your case if you don't have any evidence. Keep a record of any communication you have with your landlord. If you feel they're acting inappropriately in some way, keep a diary of events in case you need to take further action.

If you can prove discrimination, you may be able to take your landlord to the small claims court, or the Property Ombudsman. Contact Citizen's Advice Bureau for free legal advice, and be sure to report any discriminatory or unacceptable behaviour to your student union accommodation office or local council, letting your landlord know that you intend to take action. If you're really concerned, contact the police.

Susan encourages taking your time to read the finer details before signing a contract to get a sense of who you're dealing with. A good way to find out if your landlord is reputable is by talking to other people. "Renting can be a competitive market and a lot of people may feel the pressure to sign up to a place quickly, especially if the landlord is putting pressure on them," she says. "I'd recommend that young people get advice before starting a new tenancy."

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What do you do if your landlord has taken a disliking to you - not because of what you do in your own home, but because of who you are? If your landlord is discriminating against you because of your race, sexuality or gender, you don't have to put up with it.

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Essential support for under 25s

A short guide to keeping landlords at bay, when they're messing you around, trying to put up your rent, not giving your deposit back, or not doing repairs.

Landlord puts rent up half way through your lease

Before moving into any privately rented accommodation you will need to have read and signed an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement. This is a legal contract - signed by both landlord and tenant - that sets down the terms and conditions of your tenancy, usually for the next 12 months. These include the amount of rent you will be charged during this time period, so the landlord cannot, by law, choose to increase it during the term of the contract.

However,if you're on a periodic tenancy, the landlord can legally put the rent up but usually only once a year.

Landlord withholds your deposit

From April 6, 2007, the deposit you give your landlord will, by law, need to be held in the Government's Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme. This has been set up to prevent unscrupulous landlords from withholding all your dosh - which can be up to six weeks' rent - for no good reason. The scheme will help you get your deposit back without having to go to court.

But this doesn't mean you can withhold your final month's rent, either. This is breaking the terms of your contract, too, and you risk prosecution. Always pay a deposit using a cheque, banker's draft or credit card so you have your own proof of payment. But ask your landlord or lettings agent for a receipt, too.

Landlord turns up uninvited

You don't have to let him in because 24 hours' notice is required for inspection. Also, under the law, landlords can't prevent your friends from visiting - neither can they let themselves in when you're not there without your prior consent. To all intent and purposes, when you're renting the home it belongs to you and not the landlord.

Landlord kicks us out

You can only be kicked out if:

The owner wants to come back and live in the property

The house is being repossessed - though the mortgage lender must still give notice

You're over two months in arrears with your rent

You refuse vital maintenance work

A landlord can also ask the court to consider eviction if:

You've broken the terms of your contract

You're consistently late in paying the rent

You lied to get the place

However, for most private tenants, the landlord can give two months' notice and get a court order without needing to give a reason. Provided the landlord has followed certain housing rules (e.g. the two months' notice must not end before the end of the first six months of a tenancy), the court will grant an order.

If you live with your landlord, however, in most cases they can just give you notice and don't need a court order.

Read our advice if you do find yourself homeless.

The landlord isn't repairing things

The landlord is responsible for fixing things, unless you've broken them. So feel free to call them until it's fixed. If they refuse, or don't seem to be getting around to it this article has more details about your rights.

The house isn't safe

It is your landlord's job to make sure the house is safe to live in. If you think there's problems with gas, electric, fire safety, or anything else, you need to tell your landlord immediately. If they don't do anything about it then contact your local council's housing department, because they can make your landlord take action.

Next Steps

Chat about this subject on our Discussion Boards.

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Essential support for under 25s A short guide to keeping landlords at bay, when they're messing you around, trying to put up your rent, not giving your deposit back, or not doing repairs. Before moving into any privately rented accommodation you will need to have read and signed an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement.

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Is your landlord turning up uninvited? Threatening you with eviction? Not doing any repairs? We explain what your rights are as a tenant and how to deal with dodgy landlords.

Your right to pay the same rent

Don't want your rent to keep going up? Protection from this depends on what type of contract you're on. Most people will be on an 'assured shorthold tenancy', and within that you can also be on a fixed or a periodic contract.

If you're on a fixed term contract, your landlord can't put up your rent without asking you first - and, let's face it, you probably won't say yes. However, they're entitled to increase the rent if you decide to stay after the fixed term contract ends.

If you're on a periodic contract (either a weekly or monthly basis) then your landlord can put the rent up without your agreement, but only once a year.

If your landlord tries to put up your rent, then get advice from Citizen's Advice Bureau or Shelter about what you can do about it.

Remember, regardless of the situation, it's your responsibility to pay your rent - even if your landlord is refusing to fix that dripping tab, or broken towel rail. If you don't pay for two months your landlord has the right to evict you.

Your right to live in a safe house

It's your right as a tenant to live in a safe house with hot and cold water, heating, electricity, ventilation, toilet facilities and a drainage system. It's your landlord's job to provide these things and do repairs so that it's safe to live in.

Landlords are only responsible for problems they know about, so ask them to do the repairs first. If they don't do them, then you can contact your local council's housing authority who have the power to make them do it. You can find out more about which repairs are their responsibility and which are yours in this article.

Your right not to be disturbed

Your landlord can't just turn up uninvited. They must give you 24 hours notice before they come over to check the place or do any repairs - unless it's an emergency. They can't stop your friends visiting, either.

Your right to have your deposit protected

Your landlord or letting agency can't simply pocket your deposit - it needs to go into a tenancy deposit protection scheme.

Your right not to be harassed

Your landlord can't harass you or let any other tenants harass you. And they can't discriminate against you because of your race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, or anything else.

If your landlord wants you to leave:

It's illegal for them to use violence or threaten to use violence

They cannot offer you money to vacate the premises

They're also not allowed to harass you to make you leave by, for example, changing the locks shouting abuse, playing loud music etc

Your landlord's right to evict you

Your landlord can only evict you if you have broken your tenancy agreement somehow, for example, by not paying your rent. You can check whether they have the right to evict you on the Shelter eviction checker. We also have more information in our article on being evicted.
Where to go for help
If you're having problems with your landlord there are several places you can go for help.

Shelter - offer free advice about housing problems, contact them on 0808 800 4444.

Citizens Advice Bureau - offer free advice about your rights. Go to your nearest centre, or call on 08444 111 444 (England), 08444 77 2020 in Wales, and 0808 800 9060 in Scotland.

Mediation service - offer an impartial person to help resolve your arguments. You have to pay, but it's cheaper than taking your landlord to court. You can find your nearest mediation service on the Ministry of Justice website.

Your local council - your council's housing department can force your landlord to sort out health and safety issues and do repairs.

If your problem with your landlord involves them owing you money you can take them to the small claims court to get it back. This can be expensive though, and it can take ages. So get advice from Shelter or CAB before filling in the claim form.

Your rights as a lodger

When you live in the same accommodation as your landlord, be it private or a B&B, you have fewer rights. They generally depend on what you've agreed with your landlord. They don't have to apply for a court order to evict you, and the notice period can be as little as seven days.

When living as a lodger you don't need to have a written agreement for the terms of your stay at the property. However, it's best to agree one with your landlord anyway to protect you from misunderstandings.

This agreement should include:

How much rent you need to pay and when you should pay it

How much notice you'll be given if they're increasing the rent

How much notice you have to give before moving out

What services are provided and which you have to pay for, for example, meals and laundry

Whether you can have guests in your room and if there are restrictions on how long they can stay

If your room is exclusively yours and if you can lock it

If you have to pay a deposit for the room and if you can get it back when you leave

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Is your landlord turning up uninvited? Threatening you with eviction? Not doing any repairs? We explain what your rights are as a tenant and how to deal with dodgy landlords. Don't want your rent to keep going up? Protection from this depends on what type of contract you're on.

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Help from my local authority/ Help gan fy awdurdod lleol

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Help from my local authority/ Help gan fy awdurdod lleol

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Overview of the council's duties to the homeless in Wales.

Local councils have legal duties towards homeless people. If you contact the council and you are homeless or in danger of losing your home in the next 56 days the council might have to :

give you advice and help with your housing

provide you with emergency accommodation

help you keep your home

help you find a home

provide you with a home.

What help you are given depends on your circumstances and is described in summary below. For more information click on the links within each section.

Many local councils in Wales are working to provide accommodation and support during the coronavirus pandemic to people who are sleeping rough.

If you do not have anywhere to live you should contact your local council or your support worker as soon as you can. Find contact details for your local council here.

The council should help you make a homelessness application and, if you are sleeping rough, or at risk of finding yourself on the street, the council should decide that you are in priority need and give you emergency accommodation. This is because coronavirus can spread very easily and if you are sleeping on the streets it is very difficult for you to keep to the government health advice for hygiene, self-isolation and social distancing.

If you are in this situation and the council decides you are not in priority need, or says it cannot help you, get advice from Shelter Cymru straight away.

For more information about what the council can do to help you during the pandemic, click here.

You don't have to be sleeping on the street to get help from the council. Your local council may also have to help you if:

You are likely to be homeless within the next 56 days

You can only stay where you are temporarily (for example, if you are staying with friends or family in an emergency)

You have to move because of violence or threats

You are living in very overcrowded conditions

You have been locked out of your home

You live in a caravan or houseboat but have nowhere to put it

Your home is in such a bad state of repair that it is damaging your health

You are squatting or don't have permission to stay where you are

Your household is forced to live apart because your accommodation isn't suitable for you all to live together.

If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness within the next 56 days and ask the council for help, it has to follow special procedures. Each of the steps is described in more detail below. This is what should happen:

You make an homelessness application to the council.

The council interviews you and carries out an assessment of your circumstances and your needs.

If you meet certain criteria, you may be offered emergency accommodation while the council makes its enquiries and decides what help, if any, to give you.

The council completes its enquiries and tells you in writing its decision about whether you are entitled to help:

If you meet certain criteria and the council decide you are at risk of homelessness in the next 56 days, the council must provide you with help and advice to try and stop you from becoming homeless ("the duty to prevent homelessness")

If you meet certain criteria and the council decide you are actually homeless, the council must help you to find a home ("the duty to help secure accommodation").

After 56 days, if you are still homeless the council reviews your case and, if you meet certain criteria, the council must ensure you are provided with a home ("the duty to secure accommodation").

The council may need to take reasonable steps to protect your belongings ("the duty to protect belongings").

In some circumstances, you may be sent to another council's area.

When you go to the council and tell them you are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, you should be interviewed by a council officer, who will carry out an assessment. The officer should ask you about your circumstances, your housing needs and any housing support you may need. The officer should allow you to explain how you have become homeless.

The kind of help that the council has to give you depends on your individual situation. If you are homeless or likely to become homeless within the next 56 days, in most situations the very least the council has to do is:

Accept a homelessness application from you.

Carry out an assessment of your housing and support needs.

Give you advice and help to avoid losing your home (this may include helping you to negotiate with your landlord or mortgage lender) ("the duty to prevent homelessness").

Give you advice and help to find somewhere else to live (this may include providing you with advice on your benefits, referring you to other agencies, or more direct support such as providing you with a bond guarantee) ("the duty to help secure accommodation").

You do NOT have to be in priority need to receive this advice and help and it should be provided regardless of the reasons why you became homeless or at risk of homelessness.

The level of advice and help provided can vary depending on your circumstances. If the council only gives you a list of bed and breakfast hotels, hostels and private landlords, get advice from Shelter Cymru.

If you are likely to become homeless but not within the next 56 days, the council are unlikely to accept a homelessness application.

The council has to provide you with emergency housing while it looks into your situation only if it has reason to believe you may be:

While you are in emergency accommodation, the council will continue to look into your circumstances and decide if you are entitled to any further help. If the council decides that it must help you find somewhere else to live then this emergency accommodation can continue whilst that help is given to you.

The type of emergency accommodation provided varies from council to council and might be a hostel or bed & breakfast. The emergency accommodation must be suitable for you and your family, having regard to the likely length of time that you are going to be there.

The council can make a reasonable charge for this accommodation, however they should consider whether it is affordable for you. You may be able to get Housing Benefit to help pay the rent if you are on a low income.

If the council gives you emergency housing or accepts a duty to secure accommodation for you, it also has to take reasonable steps to protect your belongings (" the duty to protect belongings "). This only applies if your property is at risk and you cannot make arrangements to protect it yourself. This could be because:

you can't afford to arrange removals or storage, or,

you are too ill to arrange anything.

Most councils will put your household goods (such as furniture) into storage. They must make sure they are safe until you are able to protect them yourself or the council no longer has a responsibility to provide accommodation for you. The council will probably charge you for looking after your belongings.

The council must inform you in writing of its decision about whether you are entitled to help or not. The letter must either be sent to you or left at the council's offices for you to collect.

If the council has decided that it doesn't have a duty to help you, the letter must explain the reasons why. It must also inform you that you can ask for a review of the council's decision. You must ask for a review within 21 days of receiving the council's decision letter, so if you want to request a review, you should act quickly. You should also get advice regarding the review immediately as the procedure can be complex and you may need help in putting forward your arguments why you think the council's decision is wrong.

If you meet certain criteria and the council decide you are at risk of homelessness in the next 56 days, the council must provide you with help and advice to try and stop you from becoming homeless ("the duty to prevent homelessness"). They should help you keep your home, or, if that is not possible, help you to find somewhere else to live so that you do not become homeless.

If you meet certain criteria and the council decide you are actually homeless, the council must help you to find a home ("the duty to help secure accommodation"). This does not mean that the council has to provide you with a home, or that you will be offered permanent social housing, only that they have to HELP you find a suitable place to live. The council should provide you with advice and help with applications for housing, benefits, furniture packs etc, or perhaps consider you for a bond guarantee or family mediation or support. They may work with you to write a Personal Housing Plan with you. There are many different ways that the council can give you help and if you are not happy with what the council are doing to help then seek advice from Shelter Cymru.

After 56 days has passed from the date you were notified of the council's duty to help you, the council must review your case and, if it is satisfied that you:

still do not have suitable accommodation, or

have suitable accommodation but it is not likely to be available for at least 6 months, and

are eligible for assistance,

in priority need, and

did not make yourself homeless intentionally (not all councils will take this into consideration),

the council must ensure you are provided with a home (" the duty to secure accommodation"). This could mean that the council provide you with its own accommodation, or offer you something from another landlord, such as a housing association or even a private landlord. The accommodation must be suitable for you and your household's needs.

In some circumstances, where your household includes children or young people, the council may also have a duty to secure accommodation even if they have decided that you are intentionally homeless.

The accommodation the council offers you has to be suitable for you and your household. The council has to look at specific factors in deciding if the accommodation is suitable for you. These include:

How much you can afford to pay for the accommodation.

The location and size of the accommodation.

Any effect it may have on your health.

If you think the accommodation the council has provided is not suitable for your needs, get advice before you turn it down. You may be able to challenge the council's decision that the accommodation is suitable, but you should find out first if you have a strong case before deciding what action to take. If you refuse accommodation that the council considers is suitable for you, they might not have to give you any further help.

If the council decides that you are owed the duty to help secure accommodation, but that you do not have a local connection with the area, it may decide to refer you to another area. This can only happen in certain circumstances, which are explained in more detail in the section on local connection. The council is not allowed to send you to an area where any member of your household is at risk of domestic abuse.

If the council does decide to refer you to a different area, it has to provide emergency accommodation for you until you are told that the referral has been accepted.

This page was last updated on: July 28, 2020

Shelter Cymru acknowledges the support of Shelter in allowing us to adapt their content. The information contained on this site is updated and maintained by Shelter Cymru and only gives general guidance on the law in Wales. It should not be regarded or relied upon as a complete or authoritative statement of the law.

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Overview of the council's duties to the homeless in Wales. Local councils have legal duties towards homeless people. If you contact the council and you are homeless or in danger of losing your home in the next 56 days the council might have to : give you advice and help with your housing provide you with emergency accommodation help you keep your home help you find a home provide you with a home.

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The local authority may see you as priority need if you are:

18-20 and have previously been in care

you have a child

vulnerable for a certain reason such as disability

Falle bydd yr awdurdod lleol yn dy weld di fel angen blaenoriaeth os wyt ti’n:

18-20 oed ac wedi bod mewn gofal

rhywun sydd â phlentyn

agored i niwed am reswm penodol fel anabledd

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In most cases, you will be in priority need if you or one of the people included in your application falls into one of the following categories:

Pregnant women
The council should consider any pregnant woman (and those who live with them) to be in priority need. You will probably have to provide proof of the pregnancy from a doctor, midwife or other medical expert.

People responsible for dependent children
The council should consider you to be in priority need if you are responsible for dependent children who normally live with you (or would do if you had accommodation where you could all live together) and who are:

under 16, or

under 19 and in full time education or training.

If the children are only living with you for part of the time (for example every other week) it can be complicated. You should tell the council the normal arrangements for care of the children and be prepared to talk about financial arrangements between you and any other person caring for the children.

People made homeless by fire, flood or other disaster
The council has to accept that you are in priority need if you had to leave your home because of any disaster or emergency such as fire or flood.

Young people aged 16 or 17
All 16 and 17 year old's in Wales are automatically in priority need. Provided you are 16 or 17 on the date that you apply to the council for help you will remain in priority need even if you turn 18 by the time the council make their decision.

The housing department may want to check whether you could go back home to live with your parents or carers. They cannot force you to go back, especially if your parents or carers have been violent or abusive in the past. If you don't want the council to contact your parents or carers you can ask them not to.

The housing department will probably contact the social services department to make sure that all of your needs are met when deciding what help to give you. If this happens, the housing department should provide you with emergency accommodation in the meantime.

See the pages on advice for young people for more information and advice.

People aged 18 - 20 who are at particular risk
Young people aged 18-20 who are at risk of sexual or financial exploitation are in priority need.

This could apply if:

you are at risk of sexual abuse or prostitution;

you have learning difficulties;

you are being unreasonably controlled by someone, financially or otherwise;

your income is far less than your outgoings and you are vulnerable because you do not have any other money.

These are just examples and you may be in priority need under this category for other reasons. If you feel you are at risk then make sure you tell the council so that they can help you.

Provided you are 18 or over but under the age of 21 on the date that you apply to the council for help, you will remain in priority need under this category, even if you turn 21 by the time the council make their decision.

Victims of domestic abuse
You should be considered to be priority need if you have suffered domestic abuse or would be at risk of domestic abuse if you returned home.

Domestic abuse is when someone close to you (usually your spouse, partner, civil partner or other relative) behaves towards you in a way that causes physical, mental, or emotional damage. It need not necessarily be physical violence and includes sexual abuse and threatening or intimidating behaviour.

See the pages on Domestic Abuse and Homelessness for more information and advice.

Contact the free 24 hr Live Fear Free Helpline 0808 8010 800 if you need help now.

Armed Forces personnel
If you used to serve in the regular Armed Forces, and have been homeless since leaving those forces, you are in priority need. Being homeless means not having suitable permanent accommodation and it should not matter how long ago you were discharged, so long as you have been homeless since that time.

If you have been in settled accommodation since discharge, but have now become homeless, you will not have an automatic priority need. The council should however still consider whether you are vulnerable due to some special reason (see below), which could include your history in the armed forces.

The Welsh Government has produced a National Housing Pathway for Ex-Service Personnel which contains housing advice and support for you and your family if you were in the Armed Forces.

Vulnerable as a result of time in prison
If you have spent time in custody or detention and the council consider you to be vulnerable as a result of that time in prison, then you will be in priority need provided you have a local connection with the area.

The time in prison may have been spent on remand or after serving a sentence, and could have been at any time in your life.

When deciding if you are vulnerable as a result of the time you have spent in prison the council should consider:

the length of time you were in prison;

any trauma or difficulties you suffered whilst in prison;

how long ago you were released from prison;

whether you have managed to find and keep accommodation since leaving prison;

whether you have had any support, supervision or care since leaving prison.

To be in priority need, the council must be satisfied that, as a direct result of your time in prison, you are less able to fend for yourself if you were to become street homeless than an ordinary person who may become homeless.

People aged 18-20 who have spent time in care
Anyone between the ages of 18 and 20, who has been in care at any time while they were a child, is in priority need. You do not need to have just left care and provided you have spent at least one night in care during your childhood you will be in priority need.

Being in care includes being looked after by social services, by a voluntary organisation, in a private children's home, accommodated by the NHS or being privately fostered.

Provided you are 18 or over but under the age of 21 on the date that you apply to the council for help, you will remain in priority need under this category, even if you turn 21 by the time the council make their decision.

Even if you are over 21 when you apply to the council you may still be in priority need if the council think you are vulnerable as a result of some special reason (see below), particularly if you have been in care and do not have anywhere else to go for support.

If you are a care leaver, social services also have a duty to help you until you reach the age of 21, or, if you are in continuing further education, until you are 24.

If you are entitled to help from both housing and social services departments, they should work together to provide whatever help you need. For example, social services can ask the housing department to house you. They are not allowed just to tell you that they can't help you and send you to the other department. If this happens, get advice immediately.

Vulnerable as a result of some special reason
The council should decide that you are in priority need if you are vulnerable as a result of some special reason. In deciding whether you are vulnerable, the council should look at all the facts of your case and consider whether your personal circumstances and needs would make it more difficult for you to cope if you were street homeless than any other person who might become homeless.

It may decide that you are vulnerable because:

you are an older person

you have a physical or learning disability or mental health problems

or there is some other special reason why you are vulnerable.

Another special reason might be:

you are a young person and vulnerable because you don't have support from family or friends, have slept on the streets in the past or have problems with drugs or alcohol

you have been the victim of violence or abuse and would be at risk of further violence or abuse if you returned home

you are at risk of harassment or abuse on account of your gender, race, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation

you have been sleeping rough.

Just because you may fall into one of these categories does not automatically mean that the council will consider you to be priority need. For example, you may have an illness but the council may not consider you to be vulnerable if it can be controlled by medication, or, you maybe over 60 but not considered to be vulnerable if you are in good health. The council should consider each case on its own facts and is not allowed to have policies assuming that a particular type of person is, or is not, vulnerable.

Make sure you tell the council about any personal circumstances that make it difficult for you to deal with your housing situation. If you can, take with you to the council any medical information or letters from people who give you care or support. The council may ask you to sign a form allowing the council to contact medical professionals or other people involved in your care. In some cases the council may get an opinion from another medical professional to help them make a decision.

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In most cases, you will be in priority need if you or one of the people included in your application falls into one of the following categories: Pregnant women The council should consider any pregnant woman (and those who live with them) to be in priority need.

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Many of the young people we support became homeless because they could no longer stay in their family home - sometimes because of difficulties with relationships and sometimes because it isn't safe for them to stay at home any more.

If you are experiencing violence, abuse or threatening behaviour at home, it is really important that you seek support to find alternative accommodation. If you're in Wales and are at risk of becoming homeless in the next 56 days, your local authority has a duty to find you alternative accommodation, particularly if it is not safe for you to stay at home.

If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship with other people at home, Family Mediation could be a good option for you. Llamau's Family Mediation is very successful at helping to resolve issues between young people and their families, and could support you to continue living at home. You can get in touch with our Family Mediation services using the following details:

In Cardiff - 029 2087 3570

In Vale of Glamorgan -07966981044

In Newport -01633 244 134

In RCT -01443 432 260

In Caerphilly - 01633 244 134

In Merthyr Tydfil -01685 379 999

In Monmouthshire -07966 981083

In Torfaen - 01633 244 134

In Bridgend -07966 981076 / 07966 981048

In Neath Port Talbot -07881 093711

If you are under 18 and are being asked to leave home or are experiencing violence, abuse or threats at home, you should contact Children's Services at your local council. If you're at school or college, you should speak to a teacher or trusted adult who can support you or help you with contacting your local authority.

If you have been asked to leave home and do not have a safe place to spend the night, you can call the Youth Homeless Helpline, free of charge, on 0800 328 0292. Highly trained Llamau colleagues and volunteers will help you to access safe temporary accommodation and provide advice on how to keep yourself safe.

The helpline is open through the night and over the weekend:

Monday - Thursday : 5pm - 9am

Over the weekend: 5pm Friday - 9am Monday

You can also get confidential free support from ChildLine on 0800 1111 and at www.childline.org.uk

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Many of the young people we support became homeless because they could no longer stay in their family home - sometimes because of difficulties with relationships and sometimes because it isn't safe for them to stay at home any more.

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Get help if you're being evicted/ Cael help os wyt ti’n cael dy droi allan

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Get help if you're being evicted/ Cael help os wyt ti’n cael dy droi allan

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If you're about to be evicted from your home, you might be able to get help from your local council.

You can only be evicted if your landlord has followed the proper steps. They must:

Give you a valid section 21 or section 8 notice

Get a possession order from court if you haven't left by the date on the section 21 or section 8 notice

Ask the court for a warrant of possession if you haven't left by the date on the possession order

Get an eviction warrant from the court - this means bailiffs can make you leave your home

If your landlord hasn't gone to court yet, it's worth checking your section 21 notice or checking your section 8 notice first to make sure it's valid.

If your section 21 or section 8 notice isn't valid, you might be able to challenge the eviction and stay in your home.

If you have nowhere to stay tonight

You might be able to find emergency housing if you're already homeless.

Your local council might be able help you find a place in a local hostel, night shelter or bed and breakfast, for example.

Contact your local council to find out what help you might be able to get.

Check if your local council has to help you

Your local council has a duty to assess your case if all of these apply:

you've applied for accommodation or help in keeping or getting accommodation

you're homeless or you'll be made homeless within 56 days

If you'll be made homeless in the next 56 days and are eligible for help, your local council must help you:

keep your accommodation

get suitable accommodation

Check if you're eligible for help with homelessness.

If after 56 days or if your local council has done all it can to help you get accommodation, they'll look at 5 legal tests. These tests decide if you:

are eligible for help

are homeless or will be made homeless within 56 days

are in priority need for accommodation

are intentionally homeless - for example, if you were evicted because you didn't pay rent - in some cases they'll decide if you are, check with your local council if you're not sure

have a local connection - for example, you've lived or worked in the area

You might also be in priority need if you're disabled or have a long-term illness and being evicted could make your condition worse.

It can be difficult to prove to your local council that they have to help you. Get help from your nearest Citizens Advice - they can tell you what to say.

If your council doesn't have to offer you housing

Your local council might help you in other ways. If you're homeless they can give you help to find a new home. If you're going to become homeless they can try to help you stay in your home.

The help you can get depends on your situation. This could include:

advice on how to find a home

getting help to pay for the deposit for a new home

help to pay your rent in advance if you find a new home

help with moving costs

If you get Housing Benefit or Universal Credit to help pay your rent, your local council might also be able to find a private landlord who accepts tenants on benefits.

It's also worth looking at other ways of finding somewhere else to live. For example, joining the housing register and applying to local housing associations.

Read more about finding a new home to rent.

Make a homeless application

You should speak to your local council as soon as you know you're going to be homeless.

There isn't a set time to get a decision from the council - they should try to deal with your case without causing an unreasonable delay. They might have to find you a temporary place to live while they make a decision.

You can find your local council's contact details on GOV.UK.

If the council thinks you're going to be made homeless within 56 days (8 weeks), they must try to find you somewhere else to live.

The council might:

try to negotiate with your current landlord so you can stay

pay for your deposit

give you contact details of landlords or agents who might have available properties

help you with a benefits claim so you can afford rent

It's worth going to your local council office as soon as it opens. The housing officer will be able to give you advice and answer any questions you have.

You should take:

proof of your identity, for example your passport

your tenancy agreement, if you have one

evidence of why you have to leave your home, for example an eviction notice

someone with you if you want to, like a friend or family member to support you and take notes

Talking to a housing officer

Tell the housing officer about your situation and why you're being made homeless.

The housing officer should explain the application process to you. They'll look at your situation and decide whether they can help you. This could be help finding somewhere to live or advice about your other options.

The housing officer will look at things like:

if you're in priority need, for example if you're considered vulnerable because you're disabled or have a long-term illness

if you're eligible for help, for example if you live permanently in the UK

the reason you're homeless

if you're about to be homeless, for example if your landlord has given you a valid section 21 notice

if you're already homeless, for example if you're staying at a friend's house because you've been evicted

You can ask the housing officer for confirmation in writing that your application is being processed. If your council won't help you, ask them to confirm this in writing - and get their reasons why.

Getting a decision from your local council

Your local council will look at your situation and decide whether to find you somewhere to live.

You should get a letter telling you the council's decision.

If your local council can help you, you'll usually be given short-term housing until a suitable home is available. Your local council could also help you find a privately rented home where you'll be able to stay for at least 6 months.

Your local council might be able to find you emergency housing even if they can't find you a long-term place to live.

If your local council can't help you

If you disagree with your local council's decision, you can ask them to review it. You'll have 21 days from the date of the decision to request a review.

Your local council has to give you advice on how to find a new home even if they can't help you get one, for example the details of letting agents and hostels. The advice you'll get depends on your situation and why your council can't help you find somewhere else to live.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you want to challenge your local council's decision.

Check if you can get extra money

You might be able to get extra money if you need help finding somewhere to live.

Check if you can get:

Make sure you get your tenancy deposit back

Don't forget to get your tenancy deposit back from your landlord after you move out. Read more about getting your tenancy deposit back.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you need help with the cost of finding somewhere to live.

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If you're about to be evicted from your home, you might be able to get help from your local council. You can only be evicted if your landlord has followed the proper steps.

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Many of the young people we support became homeless because they could no longer stay in their family home - sometimes because of difficulties with relationships and sometimes because it isn't safe for them to stay at home any more.

If you are experiencing violence, abuse or threatening behaviour at home, it is really important that you seek support to find alternative accommodation. If you're in Wales and are at risk of becoming homeless in the next 56 days, your local authority has a duty to find you alternative accommodation, particularly if it is not safe for you to stay at home.

If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship with other people at home, Family Mediation could be a good option for you. Llamau's Family Mediation is very successful at helping to resolve issues between young people and their families, and could support you to continue living at home. You can get in touch with our Family Mediation services using the following details:

In Cardiff - 029 2087 3570

In Vale of Glamorgan -07966981044

In Newport -01633 244 134

In RCT -01443 432 260

In Caerphilly - 01633 244 134

In Merthyr Tydfil -01685 379 999

In Monmouthshire -07966 981083

In Torfaen - 01633 244 134

In Bridgend -07966 981076 / 07966 981048

In Neath Port Talbot -07881 093711

If you are under 18 and are being asked to leave home or are experiencing violence, abuse or threats at home, you should contact Children's Services at your local council. If you're at school or college, you should speak to a teacher or trusted adult who can support you or help you with contacting your local authority.

If you have been asked to leave home and do not have a safe place to spend the night, you can call the Youth Homeless Helpline, free of charge, on 0800 328 0292. Highly trained Llamau colleagues and volunteers will help you to access safe temporary accommodation and provide advice on how to keep yourself safe.

The helpline is open through the night and over the weekend:

Monday - Thursday : 5pm - 9am

Over the weekend: 5pm Friday - 9am Monday

You can also get confidential free support from ChildLine on 0800 1111 and at www.childline.org.uk

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Many of the young people we support became homeless because they could no longer stay in their family home - sometimes because of difficulties with relationships and sometimes because it isn't safe for them to stay at home any more.

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Volunteer with us

Over 20,000 highly trained volunteers support the delivery of our service. Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and find volunteering rewarding, challenging and fun. We have a range of roles in local Citizens Advice and Witness Service, want to find out more?

Our volunteer opportunities

Find your local Citizens Advice

For more information and advice

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Over 20,000 highly trained volunteers support the delivery of our service. Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and find volunteering rewarding, challenging and fun. We have a range of roles in local Citizens Advice and Witness Service, want to find out more?

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Whether you have issues paying your rent, need urgent repairs or are moving into your first home, our advice for young people portal is here to help you.

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Local Authority support/ Cefnogaeth gan yr Awdurdod Lleol 

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Local Authority support/ Cefnogaeth gan yr Awdurdod Lleol 

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Landlords- Public Register register/ Landlordiaid- Cofrestr Gyhoeddus

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Landlords- Public Register register/ Landlordiaid- Cofrestr Gyhoeddus

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Landlords and agents have obligations to tenants when they rent out property, but as a tenant you also have rights and responsibilities./
Mae rhwymedigaethau ar landlordiaid ac asiantau i denantiaid pan fyddant yn rhentu eiddo, ond fel tenant mae gennych chi hawliau a chyfrifoldebau hefyd.

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The Housing (Wales) Act 2014 states in Schedule 1 what information must be provided about a registered landlord, property or licensed landlord or agent if a request is made to the Licensing Authority.

Use the search below to find out information on the public register.
Please note: this search and the results presented are on all property addresses within Wales which have a postal address. Therefore finding the address is no indication that the property is, or has ever been, rented.
If you have been shown a licence card and are unsure if it is genuine, click here to compare with an original template. If you still think the licence card you have been shown is not genuine, please contact Rent Smart Wales.

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The Housing (Wales) Act 2014 states in Schedule 1 what information must be provided about a registered landlord, property or licensed landlord or agent if a request is made to the Licensing Authority. Use the search below to find out information on the public register.

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Your landlord must usually carry out any repairs that are needed to:

the structure and outside of the building - this includes walls, the roof, outside doors and windows

sinks, baths, toilets and other fittings like pipes and drains

heating and hot water installations

all gas appliances, pipes, flues and ventilation

electrical wiring.

If damage has been caused by the disrepair, or is caused during any repair work, your landlord must also put that right.

Landlords have certain extra responsibilities for gas, electrical and fire safety in your home.

They must also make sure that your home is free from any hazards that could affect the health and safety of anyone in your household.

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Repairs and bad conditions - Shelter Cymru

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Your landlord must usually carry out any repairs that are needed to: the structure and outside of the building - this includes walls, the roof, outside doors and windows sinks, baths, toilets and other fittings like pipes and drains heating and hot water installations all gas appliances, pipes, flues and ventilation electrical wiring.

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Social Services and Wellbeing Act/ Ddeddf Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol a Llesiant

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Social Services and Wellbeing Act/ Ddeddf Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol a Llesiant

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Codes of practice provide guidance, backed by law, to help people and organisations work within the new framework created by an Act.

You can find links to the codes of practice issued under Section 145 of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014. Local authorities must act in accordance with the codes of practice and their requirements when exercising their social services functions.

Read the Minister's written statement announcing the issuing of the codes of practice above (except the Part 8 Code) on 18 December 2015.

Appointed Day Orders

This Order appoints 6 April 2016 as the day on which the codes of practice issued by the Welsh Ministers under Section 145 (1) of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 come into force.

This Order appoints 6 April 2016 as the day on which the Part 8 Code of Practice on the Role of the Director of Social Services (Social Services Functions) comes into force.

Other codes of practice under the Act

Read the Minister's written statement announcing the issuing of the Code of Practice on Measuring Social Services, as well as his written statement about the laying of the Code of Practice before the National Assembly in June 2015.

Local authorities, when exercising their functions in respect of special guardianship orders, are required to act in accordance with the requirements contained in the code and have regard to any guidelines set out in it.

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Codes of practice provide guidance, backed by law, to help people and organisations work within the new framework created by an Act. You can find links to the codes of practice issued under Section 145 of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014.

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If you get a section 21 notice, it's the first step your landlord has to take to make you leave your home. You won't have to leave your home straight away.

If your section 21 notice is valid, your landlord will need to go to court to evict you.

You might be able to challenge your eviction and stay longer in your home.

You might have to pay court costs if you decide to challenge your eviction. You should make sure you have a good case before you decide to go to court.

When you can get a section 21 notice

Your landlord doesn't need a reason for giving you a section 21 notice - for example, they might just want to move back into the property.

You can only get a section 21 notice if you have an assured shorthold tenancy. If you're not sure what type of tenancy you have, use Shelter's tenancy checker to find out.

If your landlord gives you a section 21 notice and you don't have an assured shorthold tenancy, your notice won't be valid. You'll be able to challenge your eviction and stay in your home.

You don't have to sign a section 21 notice to prove you've received it - even if your landlord asks you to.

Your landlord could give you a section 8 notice as well as a section 21 notice. You might get a section 8 notice if you have rent arrears, for example.

If you get a section 8 notice, don't ignore it. You'll need to deal with it as well as your section 21 notice - and the steps are different.
Read our advice on what to do if you've got a section 8 notice.
Check your section 21 notice is valid

The first thing you should do is check your section 21 notice is valid. If it isn't, you might be able to challenge it and stay in your home.

Check how much notice you've been given

The government have temporarily changed the law around evictions.

If your landlord gives you an eviction notice on or after 26 March 2020, the notice period has to be at least 3 months.

Your section 21 notice won't be valid if you haven't been given at least 2 months' notice.

If you have a longer tenancy period, for example where you pay your rent every 3 months, your landlord might need to give you more than 2 months' notice. Check what kind of tenancy you have on Shelter's website if you're not sure.

If your landlord hasn't given you at least 2 months' notice - or longer if you have a longer tenancy period - you could tell them that your section 21 notice isn't valid. Your landlord might then give you a new notice if they want you to leave - giving you another 2 months to stay in your home.

You should make sure your new notice is valid.

If your deposit hasn't been protected

If your landlord didn't protect your deposit or they protected it late, your section 21 notice won't be valid - unless they've already given your deposit back to you.

The date your deposit had to be protected by depends on when it was paid and when your tenancy started. Check if you're not sure whether your landlord protected your deposit.

Your landlord might also have to pay you compensation if they didn't protect your deposit. Read more about taking your landlord to court if your deposit isn't protected.

Not all deposits need to be protected. Your deposit doesn't need to be protected for example if you're a lodger.

If you didn't get information about your deposit

Your section 21 notice won't be valid if your landlord didn't give you certain details about your deposit before giving you the notice. These details are known as 'prescribed information'.

Prescribed information includes:

a receipt for your deposit

your landlord's contact details

how to get your deposit back when you leave

You can find a full list of the information landlords must give tenants on GOV.UK.

Not all deposits need to be protected. Your deposit doesn't need to be protected for example if you're a lodger.

Check when your landlord should have given you the prescribed information.

If your section 21 notice has a mistake on it

Your section 21 notice might not be valid if your landlord has made mistakes on it, for example if they've spelt your name wrong or put the wrong date.

Check your section 21 notice to make sure your name and address are correct. You should also check the name and contact details of your landlord or letting agent are correct.

If you live in a house that needs a licence

Your section 21 notice might not be valid if you live in a house that needs a licence and your landlord doesn't have one.

Your home might need a licence for example if you live in a shared house, bedsit or hostel.

Read more about what to do if you have a problem with your shared house.

Your council might have extra laws about what types of properties should be licensed. You can ask your local council if you're not sure whether your home needs a licence.

If your landlord didn't use form 6a

If your landlord didn't use form 6a it might still be valid - it'll depend on when your tenancy started.

If your tenancy started after 1 October 2015

Your section 21 notice will only be valid if your landlord used the right version of form 6a or a letter with the same information. The right version depends on when notice was served to end the tenancy.

You can see the current version of form 6a on GOV.UK. If you're not sure whether your landlord has used the correct form, contact your nearest Citizens Advice.

If your tenancy started before 1 October 2015

If you got your section 21 notice before 1 October 2018 it will be valid even if your landlord didn't use form 6a. If you got your notice after 1 October 2018, get help from your nearest Citizens Advice to check if your notice is valid.

If your landlord doesn't go to court in time

If your tenancy started after 1 October 2015

Your landlord can't evict you if they don't start the court process within 6 months of giving you the section 21 notice. If your landlord still wants to evict you, they'll need to give you a new section 21 notice.

If your tenancy started before 1 October 2015

If your landlord gave you the section 21 notice before 1 October 2018, your notice might still be valid even if they haven't gone to court within 6 months. Your nearest Citizens Advice can help you find out if the notice is valid or not.

If you have a fixed term tenancy

If you have a break clause

Either you or your landlord can end your tenancy early if you have a break clause.

If your landlord uses a break clause and gives you a section 21 notice, you might have to leave your home before the end of the fixed term.

You can find the details of your break clause in your tenancy agreement.

It will say how you or your landlord can end the tenancy early. For example, it might say you can give notice after 12 months of a 24 month tenancy. You or your landlord have to follow what the break clause says to end the tenancy legally. If your landlord wants you to move out, they also need to give you a section 21 notice.

You'll have a fixed term tenancy if it has a definite start and end date.

Your section 21 notice won't be valid if you got it within the first 4 months of the start of your original tenancy. You won't need to leave before your fixed term ends, for example if you get a section 21 notice 4 months into a 6-month fixed term, you won't have to leave until it ends.

You might have a replacement tenancy if you and your landlord agree a new tenancy on your home after your fixed term ends. Your notice might be valid within the first 4 months of a 'replacement' tenancy. The section 21 notice will be valid if the length of your original and replacement tenancies add up to at least 4 months.

If you have a contractual periodic tenancy

You'll have a contractual periodic tenancy if:

your tenancy has been rolling from the beginning, usually from month to month

your original tenancy agreement makes it clear it'll become a rolling tenancy when the fixed term has ended

you signed a new rolling tenancy agreement after your original tenancy expired

If you have a contractual periodic tenancy, your notice has to be a minimum of 2 months, or as long as the period of your tenancy, whichever is longer. For example, if your period of tenancy runs for 3 months, your landlord needs to give you 3 months' notice.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you're not sure what type of tenancy you have or how long your tenancy period is.

If your landlord didn't give you the right documents

If your tenancy started after 1 October 2015, your section 21 notice might not be valid if your landlord didn't:

New guides were published on:

You can read the 'How to rent' guide on GOV.UK.

If your landlord gave you the 'How to rent' guide at the same time as your section 21 notice, they might have given you the wrong version. You can get help from your nearest Citizens Advice to find out if you can challenge the section 21 notice.

If your landlord didn't give you the right version

Your section 21 notice won't be valid.

Your landlord will have to give you the right version before giving you a valid section 21 notice.

If you're being evicted because you've complained

There are extra rules that might protect you from being evicted if you've complained to your landlord or asked for repairs. Read more about what to do if you're being evicted for asking for repairs.

If your landlord charged fees during your contract

You might be able to challenge your eviction if you paid your landlord any fees. Your landlord can only charge you:

your rent and utility bills

a damage deposit

a holding deposit (up to 1 weeks rent)

a fee for losing your key or key fob

a fee for paying your rent 14 days late or more (this has to be written in your tenancy agreement)

a fee for a change to the tenancy that you asked for

a fee for ending your tenancy early

council tax

a TV licence

If your landlord charged you for anything else, contact your nearest Citizens Advice - they could help you challenge your eviction.

If your landlord asked you for a deposit of more than 5 weeks' rent

Your landlord can only charge a maximum of 5 weeks' rent for security deposits (or up to 6 weeks' if your total annual rent is over £50,000).

If your landlord charged you too much and hasn't given it back, contact your nearest Citizens Advice - they could help you challenge your eviction.

If your section 21 notice is valid

Your landlord can't make you leave your home unless they've gone to court to get a possession order and a warrant for eviction - this means they can use court bailiffs to evict you. If they try to force you to leave before this, it's an illegal eviction - contact your nearest Citizens Advice for help to challenge it.

Your landlord can only go to court after the date the section 21 notice says you have to leave.

If you've got a good relationship with your landlord, it might be worth asking them if you can stay in your home for longer. Send a letter to your landlord explaining your situation and keep a copy of any reply you get.

When your landlord goes to court, you might be able to ask the court to let you stay in your home for longer. You'll need to get papers from the court before you can ask to stay in your home for longer.

If you decide to leave your home

Don't leave your home before the date on your section 21 notice if you haven't found somewhere else to live.

You can ask your local council for help as soon as you get a section 21 notice - they might be able to:

Check if you can apply for help as someone who's homeless or will soon be homeless.

You can also find out what other help you can get if you're being evicted.

Keep paying your rent

It's important that you keep paying your rent until the day your tenancy ends. If you're leaving and you've paid all your agreed rent, ask your landlord to write to you confirming that your tenancy has ended and you've paid everything you owe. Both you and your landlord should sign it.

If you don't pay your rent, your landlord could take you to court to get back any unpaid rent you owe. They could also refuse to give you a reference or give you a bad one, which could make finding another home difficult.

If your section 21 isn't valid

You'll be able to stay in your home and challenge your eviction if your landlord hasn't given you a valid section 21 notice.

Your landlord will have to give you a new, valid notice if they still want you to leave your home.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if your section 21 notice isn't valid and you're not sure what to do next.

Challenge your eviction

You might be able to challenge your eviction if your section 21 notice isn't valid or you have a good reason why you shouldn't leave your home. This is called 'defending possession'.

You'll need to wait until you get papers from the court before you can challenge your eviction.

If you get court papers

If you don't leave your home by the date on your section 21 notice - for example because you want to challenge it - you'll get papers from the court.

You'll get the court papers because your landlord is taking action to make you leave your home. This is known as starting a 'possession claim'. The court will then decide whether you need to leave your home.

The court will send you an 'N11B defence form'. You can use the form to give your reasons why you think you should stay in your home.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you get a letter from the court and you're not sure what steps to take.

If you think your landlord has discriminated against you

If your landlord has treated you unfairly because of who you are, you might be able to defend your eviction. For example, they might be evicting you because you're gay, or because they don't want to make changes for your disability.

Check if your problem counts as discrimination to find out whether you can add it to your eviction defence.

If the reason you're being evicted is connected to your disability

You might be able to challenge the eviction. For example if you're being evicted for rent arrears, but the reason you got into rent arrears was because your learning difficulty made it hard to follow your landlord's payment policy.

You might be able to defend your eviction using discrimination law..

If you're being evicted because you complained about discrimination before

This could be a type of discrimination called victimisation. You might be able to defend your eviction using discrimination law - check if your housing problem is discrimination.

You might have to pay your landlord's court costs if your landlord starts a possession claim. Court costs can be expensive.

You might be able to get legal aid to help you with your case, for example if you're on a low income or get benefits.

If you get legal aid, you might get protection from paying your landlord's costs if you can't afford them.

Read more about getting help with legal costs.

Fill in the defence form

Use the defence form to give your reasons for challenging your section 21 notice, for example if you weren't given 2 months' notice or your deposit wasn't protected.

It's a good idea to be as detailed as possible. The court will use the form to decide if you should stay in your home.

If the court decides you should pay court costs, you'll usually have to pay them within 14 days. You can use the form to ask to pay court costs over a longer time - for example by making a smaller payment every month.

If the court issues a possession order, the order will usually say you need to leave your home within 14 days.

You should use the form to explain why leaving within 14 days could cause you 'exceptional hardship' - for example if you have a serious illness or disability. You should do this even if your section 21 notice is valid.

If the court agrees that leaving your home would cause you exceptional hardship, they could delay the date you'll need to leave by up to 6 weeks (42 days).

Send the form

You should send the form back to the court within 14 days - the address will be on the form. It's worth keeping a copy of the form for your records.

You should still send the form if you miss the deadline. The court might still consider it.

If you have a court hearing, you should still go - even if you haven't sent the defence form. It's more likely you'll be able to stay in your home if you do.

After you've sent the defence form

The court will look at the defence form. They'll either:

If you have a possession hearing, you'll get a letter telling you when and where the hearing is.

Preparing for a possession hearing

Read all the documents you've been given by the court and your landlord. Take any evidence you have, for example:

a letter or email from the 3 tenancy deposit schemes showing that your deposit wasn't protected or protected late

a letter from your local council saying that the property isn't licensed if it should be

a letter from your GP saying that you would suffer exceptional hardship if you have to leave within 14 days

The evidence you have will depend on your case.

You'll be able to take someone with you for support, for example a friend or family member. They might not be able to speak for you in court.

Getting legal help

You can get a solicitor to represent you in court - you might be able to get legal aid to help you cover the cost. Find out if you can get help with legal costs on GOV.UK.

You might be able to get free legal advice on the day of the hearing. Ask the court for details of what help you can get.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice to find out what legal advice you can get.

Getting a decision from court

You'll be told by the court if you can stay in your home or if you'll have to leave.

If you have a court hearing, you'll be told the decision at the hearing. If you don't have a court hearing, the court will send a letter telling you their decision.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you get a possession order.

If you have to leave

You normally won't have to leave your home straight away. You'll get a notice from the court telling you when you're supposed to leave. This is called an 'outright possession order'.

You'll usually be given 14 days to leave, but it could be longer.

You can appeal against the decision of the possession order, but only if you can prove that mistakes were made in the possession hearing. For example, if the court didn't look at relevant information or used the wrong law.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you think the court should look at your case again.

If the court accepts your defence, they could decide to dismiss your landlord's case. This means you'll stay in your home without any conditions.

If you don't leave your home

Your landlord will have to get an eviction warrant from the court if you don't leave your home by the date on the possession order. This means they can ask the court to send 'enforcement officers' to make you leave.

Enforcement officers are also known as bailiffs. Bailiffs are employed by the court to help landlords get their property back.

You'll usually be told by the bailiffs when they're coming to evict you. Your landlord could ask the high court to send bailiffs - if they do this, you might not be told they're coming.

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If you get a section 21 notice, it's the first step your landlord has to take to make you leave your home. You won't have to leave your home straight away. If your section 21 notice is valid, your landlord will need to go to court to evict you.

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If you get a section 8 notice, it's the first step your landlord has to take to make you leave your home. You won't have to leave your home straight away.

If your section 8 notice is valid, your landlord will need to go to court to evict you.

You might be able to challenge your eviction and stay longer in your home.

When you can get a section 8 notice

You might get a section 8 notice at any time during your tenancy. It depends on the reason your landlord is using to try to make you leave.

Your section 8 notice will only be valid if you've got an assured or assured shorthold tenancy.

You can check what type of tenancy you have on Shelter's website.

Your landlord has to give you a reason for giving you a section 8 notice. There are lots of reasons your landlord can use, for example if you:

have rent arrears

damage your landlord's property

cause a nuisance to your neighbours

Your landlord could give you a section 21 notice as well as a section 8 notice. Your landlord doesn't need a reason for giving you a section 21 notice.

If you get a section 21 notice, don't ignore it. You'll need to deal with it as well as your section 8 notice - and the steps are different.

Read our advice on what to do if you've got a section 21 notice.

How much notice you'll get

The amount of notice you get will depend on what grounds for possession your landlord has used. Normally, you'll get at least 14 days' notice - you won't have to leave straight away.

The government have temporarily changed the law around evictions.

If your landlord gives you an eviction notice on or after 26 March 2020, the notice period has to be at least 3 months.

You should think about whether you have a good case to stay in your home if you go to court. You should also think about what your options are if you decide to leave.

If you leave your home before the date on your section 8 notice, you could be considered 'intentionally homeless'. This could make it harder for you to get help from your local council.

You should get help before you decide to leave your home.

Check your landlord has given your section 8 notice correctly

Your landlord should give your section 8 notice in writing using 'form 3' or a letter with the same information. You can find form 3 on GOV.UK if you're not sure what it looks like.

Your notice won't be valid if it doesn't include:

your name

the address of the property

the 'grounds for possession' - these are the reasons why your landlord wants you to leave your home

the date your notice ends - your landlord will need to get a possession order from the court if you don't leave by that date

If your landlord hasn't given you the notice correctly, they could still ask the court to order you to leave your home. You'll have a chance to put your case forward and the court will make a decision.

Check the reason on your section 8 notice is valid

Your landlord has to give you a valid reason for giving you a section 8 notice. These reasons are known as 'grounds for possession'. The court will have to accept your landlord's grounds for possession before they decide whether you have to leave.

Your section 8 notice should explain:

what grounds for possession your landlord is using to try to evict you - they might use a few

why your landlord is using the grounds for possession, for example if you have rent arrears, or if you've damaged the property

The grounds for possession are numbered 1-17. The court will decide whether you have to leave your home or if you can stay - it'll depend on the grounds for possession your landlord has used.

The ground number and explanation should be on your section 8 notice. If they're not, the section 8 notice won't be valid.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you need help understanding the grounds for possession your landlord is using.

your landlord wants to move back into the property

your landlord is behind with their mortgage payments and the property is being repossessed

you've been convicted of a serious criminal offence near your home

2 months - if you pay your rent monthly

8 weeks - if you pay your rent weekly

3 months - if you pay your rent quarterly or yearly

Challenge your eviction

You might be able to challenge your eviction if your section 8 notice isn't valid or you have a good reason why you shouldn't leave your home. This is called 'defending possession'.

It's a good idea to talk to your landlord if you feel able to. They might decide to let you stay in your home if you can show you can repay your arrears, for example.

If you don't leave your home

If you don't leave by the date on your section 8 notice, your landlord will have to go to court to make you leave. This is called starting a possession claim. Your landlord can't go to court until after the date given on your section 8 notice.

Your landlord has to start a possession claim within 12 months of the date on your section 8 notice.

If you get court papers

You'll get court papers when your landlord starts a possession claim. The papers will tell you why your landlord is trying to make you leave your home. This will include any evidence they want the court to look at.

You'll also be given a date for a court hearing. This will give you the chance to put your case forward. The court will then decide at the hearing whether you need to leave your home.

You might be able to challenge your eviction and stay in your home. You'll need to act straight away if you get court papers.

The court will send you a 'defence form'. You can use the form to give your reasons why you think you should stay in your home. You can find a copy of form N11 on GOV.UK.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you get papers from the court and you're not sure what steps to take.

You might have to pay your landlord's court costs if your landlord starts a possession claim. Court costs can be expensive.

You might be able to get legal aid to help you with your case, for example if you're on a low income or get benefits.

If you get legal aid, you might get protection from paying your landlord's costs if you can't afford to pay them.

Read more about getting help with legal costs.

Fill in the defence form

Use the defence form to give your reasons for challenging your eviction. You could challenge your eviction if, for example, the details on your section 8 notice are wrong or your landlord hasn't given you a proper reason.

It's best to give as much detail as possible - the court will look at your defence form to decide whether you can stay in your home.

If you get a possession order, you'll usually have to pay any court costs within 14 days. You can use the form to ask to pay court costs over a longer time - for example by making a smaller payment every month.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you need help filling in the defence form.

Explain how you're making the situation better

Your landlord might be able to evict you using a section 8 notice if, for example:

you don't pay your rent, or pay it late

you've got a pet but your tenancy agreement says you can't keep pets

you've damaged your home

You might be able to defend your section 8 notice if you explain to the court what you're doing to put things right. For example if you've paid some of your rent arrears or if you've repaired any damage you caused. You should also explain why it won't happen again.

Make sure you write on your defence form why you think you should be allowed to stay in your home.

You should use the defence form to explain to the court why you think you should have more time in your home. You'll need to explain your situation in as much detail as you can.

The court could delay the date you'll need to leave your home. The amount of extra time the court can give you depends on the reason, or ground, your landlord is using.

Depending on the reason your landlord has given on your section 8 notice, the court could either:

let you stay in your home if you follow their orders, for example if you agree to pay off your arrears - this might happen if your landlord has used grounds 9 to 17

delay the date you'll need to leave by up to 6 weeks if leaving in the usual 14 days would cause you problems - this might happen if your landlord has used grounds 1 to 8

You'll need to have a good reason to delay the date you leave, for example if you've got a serious illness, a disability or young children.

The court will decide whether you can stay in your home and how long for.

Send the defence form

You must send the form back to the court within 14 days - the address will be on the form.

If you miss the deadline, you should still send the form back as soon as possible.

Make sure you keep a copy of your form - you'll need to remember what you've written later on.

After you've sent your defence form

You should have been given a date to go to court with your court papers. This is known as a possession hearing.

You should go to the possession hearing - it's your chance to put forward your case in court and give reasons why you should stay in your home.

Prepare for your possession hearing

The court will tell you when your hearing is and where you need to go for it.

Read all the documents you've got from the court and your landlord. Take any evidence with you to court, for example:

a copy of your tenancy agreement

a letter from your GP if you couldn't pay your rent because you were ill and unable to work

a bank statement or wage slip to show how much you can afford to repay if you're in rent arrears

Go to your possession hearing

You should make sure you go to the possession hearing even if you've not sent your defence form. It's your opportunity to explain your situation to the court.

You could give any extra evidence you have, for example if you've got a new job and could afford to pay back some arrears.

If you've sent your defence form and you don't go to the hearing, the court could ignore it and just rely on the evidence your landlord has given them.

You can take someone with you for support, for example a friend or family member. They might not be able to speak for you in court.

Getting legal help

You can get a lawyer to represent you in court - you might be able to get legal aid to help you cover the cost. Find out if you can get help with legal costs at GOV.UK.

You might be able to get free legal advice on the day of the hearing. You can ask the court for details of what help you can get.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice to find out what legal advice you can get.

Getting a decision from the court

You'll be told by the court if you can stay in your home or if you'll have to leave.

They'll usually tell you their decision on the day of the hearing.

If the court needs more information, they might decide to hear the case on another day.

If you don't go to the hearing, you could find out the court's decision by phoning them or speaking to your landlord. The court will also send a letter telling you whether you have to leave your home.

Even if you have to leave your home, the court might give you more time to find somewhere else to live.

If you have to leave

You normally won't have to leave your home straight away - you'll get a notice from the court telling you when you're supposed to leave. This is called an 'outright possession order'.

You'll usually be given 14 days to leave, but it could be longer.

You can appeal against the decision of the possession order, but only if you can prove that mistakes were made in the possession hearing. For example if the court didn't look at relevant information or used the wrong law.

You might be able to stop a possession order if your situation changes, for example if you start getting benefits and can repay your rent arrears. This is known as 'suspending' a possession order. Whether you can do this depends on the ground your landlord uses.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice if you get a possession order.

If you couldn't go to the court hearing

If you couldn't go to the court hearing you might be able to get the court to look at your case again.

Contact your nearest Citizens Advice for help if you couldn't go to the court hearing.

If you can stay in your home

If the court accepts your defence, they could decide to:

let you stay in your home if you meet certain conditions, for example if you pay your arrears - this is known as 'suspending' a possession order

dismiss your landlord's case - this means you'll stay in your home and you won't need to meet any conditions

You'll only be able to suspend a possession order if your landlord has used grounds 9-17. This is because they are discretionary grounds.

You might have to pay court costs - the judge will tell you how much.

You can also apply to change an order later, for example if you can't keep to the terms of the order any more.

If you don't leave your home

Get help from your nearest Citizens Advice straight away if you've been told bailiffs are coming to your home.

Your landlord will have to get an eviction warrant from the court if you don't leave your home by the date on the possession order. This means they can ask the court to send 'enforcement officers' to make you leave.

Enforcement officers are also known as bailiffs. Bailiffs are employed by the court to help landlords get their property back.

You'll usually be told by the bailiffs when they're coming to evict you. Your landlord could ask the high court to send bailiffs - if they do this, you might not be told they're coming.

Depending on the ground your landlord has used, you might be able to ask the court again to to delay the date you'll need to leave. For example if you can now repay your arrears in a reasonable time.

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If you get a section 8 notice, it's the first step your landlord has to take to make you leave your home. You won't have to leave your home straight away. If your section 8 notice is valid, your landlord will need to go to court to evict you.