Introduction to Your Occupation Contract

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2022 changed the way homes are rented in Wales. If you rent a home from FlatHomes, you now have an 'occupation contract' instead of a tenancy agreement.

This Act aims to make renting simpler and fairer for everyone. Your occupation contract sets out your rights and responsibilities, as well as those of your landlord. It's a key document that protects both parties.

You should have received a copy of your written occupation contract from FlatHomes. If you have any questions about it, please don't hesitate to ask.

Your Key Rights as a Contract Holder

Under your occupation contract, you have important rights designed to ensure your safety, security, and enjoyment of your home:

• A Written Contract: You have the right to receive a written copy of your occupation contract within 14 days of moving in.
• "Fit for Human Habitation" Property: Your home must be safe and suitable for living in. This includes ensuring it is free from serious hazards and in a good state of repair.
• Repairs & Maintenance: Your landlord is responsible for keeping the structure and exterior of the property in repair, and for keeping installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, sanitation, and heating in good working order.
• Quiet Enjoyment: You have the right to live in your home without unnecessary interference from your landlord or FlatHomes.
• Notice for Entry: Your landlord or FlatHomes must give you at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your home, unless it's an emergency.
• Deposit Protection: Your security deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme, and you must receive information about this.
• Changing the Contract: Your contract can only be changed in specific ways, and you must be given notice of any changes.

Your Key Responsibilities as a Contract Holder

To ensure a positive and smooth tenancy, you also have responsibilities outlined in your occupation contract:

• Pay Rent on Time: You must pay your rent and any other charges (like council tax and utilities) as agreed in your contract.
• Take Care of the Property: You must take proper care of your home, keeping it clean and tidy. This includes minor maintenance like changing light bulbs and testing smoke alarms.
• Report Issues: You must report any repairs or maintenance issues to FlatHomes as soon as you become aware of them.
• Allow Access for Repairs/Inspections: You must allow your landlord or FlatHomes reasonable access to the property for inspections, repairs, or safety checks, provided you have received proper notice.
• Avoid Causing Damage: You must not intentionally or negligently cause damage to the property.
• Be a Good Neighbour: You must not engage in anti-social behaviour or cause a nuisance to your neighbours.
• Inform FlatHomes of Changes: You should inform FlatHomes of any significant changes, such as changes to the number of people living in the property or extended periods of absence.
• Waste Management: Dispose of your waste and recycling correctly, following local council guidelines.
• Maintain Gardens: If your property includes a garden, you are typically responsible for its basic upkeep (e.g., mowing lawns, weeding).

What to Do If You Have Concerns

If you have any concerns about your property or your tenancy, please contact FlatHomes in the first instance. We are here to help resolve issues quickly and fairly.

• For Maintenance: Use our online portal to report repairs.
• For General Queries: Contact our office by phone or email.
• For Complaints: If you are unhappy with our service, please follow our formal complaints procedure.

If you feel your concerns are not being addressed, you may also seek independent advice from organisations like Shelter Cymru or Citizens Advice.

Useful Links & Resources

• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2022 - Welsh Government Guidance
• Shelter Cymru (Housing advice and support in Wales)
• Citizens Advice Wales - Housing
• FlatHomes Contract Holder Resource Hub