Registration and licensing are separate
An immediate landlord of a domestic tenancy in Wales generally registers themselves and the rental property with Rent Smart Wales. A landlord who carries out letting or management activities generally also needs a licence and appropriate training, unless a licensed agent performs that work.
Use the public register to check the property and responsible people.
Use Welsh documents and language
Wales uses occupation contracts and refers to renters as contract-holders. A written statement of the contract is required, and Welsh rules cover fitness, alarms, electrical testing, deposits and possession.
Do not reuse an English AST or a 2026 England-only Renters’ Rights summary for a Welsh room.
Check the resident-landlord exception
If the dwelling is your main home and you share living accommodation with the person renting, Rent Smart Wales states that registration and licensing requirements may not apply in the same way and the occupier may live there under a licence.
Facts and layout matter. Confirm your position with Rent Smart Wales and obtain advice for unusual buildings or arrangements.
Official sources and further reading
- Landlord and agent licensingRent Smart Wales
- Tenant guidance and the Rent Smart Wales registerRent Smart Wales