Occupation Contracts Wales
Complete guide to occupation contracts in Wales. What must be included, key matters, fundamental terms, and how they differ from ASTs.
Last updated: January 2026
What are occupation contracts?
Occupation contracts are the new occupation contracts used in Wales under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. They replaced assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) from 1 December 2022.
If you rent out property in Wales, you must use an occupation contract - not an AST. Our property management services ensure full compliance with all occupation contract requirements.
Types of occupation contract
Standard contract
This is the contract type used by most private landlords. It's similar to the old AST but with more protections for tenants and clearer requirements for landlords.
Secure contract
Used by local authorities and housing associations. Offers greater security of tenure than standard contracts.
What must be in an occupation contract?
Key matters
These must appear on the first page:
- Names of the landlord and contract holder(s)
- Address of the property
- Start date of the occupation
- Rent amount and payment frequency
- Rental periods
Fundamental terms
These are set by law and cannot be removed or weakened:
- Landlord's repairing obligations
- Fitness for human habitation
- Requirements for possession proceedings
- Deposit protection requirements
Supplementary terms
Model terms provided by Welsh Government that apply automatically unless varied by agreement:
- Tenant obligations (rent, property care, behaviour)
- Rules about alterations and subletting
- Access for inspections and repairs
Additional terms
You can add extra terms specific to your property, as long as they don't conflict with fundamental terms. Examples:
- Pet policies
- Garden maintenance responsibilities
- Specific property rules
Providing the written statement
You must provide the written occupation contract within 14 days of the occupation date. This is a legal requirement.
If you fail to provide a written statement:
- You cannot serve notice to end the contract
- You may face compensation claims
- You cannot claim certain damages from the contract holder
Key differences from ASTs
- Notice period: 6 months (was 2 months for Section 21)
- Minimum term before notice: 6 months
- Joint tenants: Can be added or removed without ending contract
- Written contract: Mandatory within 14 days
- FFHH standard: Legal requirement throughout the contract period
Morgan Jones occupation contracts
We provide fully compliant occupation contracts for all properties we manage. Our contracts are:
- Welsh Government compliant
- Regularly updated when law changes
- Clear and easy to understand
- Tailored to your property where needed
For expert guidance on occupation contracts and comprehensive landlord services, contact Morgan Jones today.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with official sources such as Rent Smart Wales or seek professional legal advice for your specific circumstances.
Let us handle compliance for you
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