The Welsh Ministers have made WSI 2026/6, commencing Chapter 4 of Part 1 of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 in Wales. This brings into force the prohibition on discriminatory bans based on a prospective occupier having children or being a benefits claimant, applying to occupation contracts in Wales.
WSI 2026/6, made by the Welsh Ministers, brings into force the provisions of Chapter 4 of Part 1 of the Renters' Rights Act 2025. These provisions relate to the prohibition of discriminatory bans and restrictions in relation to a dwelling that is to be the subject of an occupation contract, on the basis that a child would or may live with or visit a person at the dwelling, or on the basis that a person is or may be a benefits claimant.
The commencement order applies the RRA 2025 discrimination provisions to Wales under the occupation contract framework established by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which replaced assured tenancies in Wales with occupation contracts. This Welsh instrument is therefore narrower in scope than the broader English commencement on 1 May 2026, which also abolished Section 21, introduced assured periodic tenancies, and reformed possession grounds ? none of which apply to Welsh occupation contracts.
Welsh landlords should note that the prohibition is framed around occupation contracts: a landlord must not apply any policy, criterion, or practice that has the effect of excluding or disadvantaging prospective contract-holders because of the presence of children or benefit status. Advertising that explicitly states "no DSS" or "no children" will be unlawful under this provision. Landlords and letting agents in Wales should review their tenant selection and advertising practices and update any instructions to agents accordingly to ensure they do not inadvertently discriminate under the new rules.
Action required
Landlords with properties in Wales must not apply blanket bans or restrictions that exclude prospective occupants because a child would or may live with them, or because they are or may be a benefits claimant. Review letting criteria, advertising, and agent instructions to ensure compliance. Note that most RRA 2025 tenancy reform provisions apply only to England; this SI is specific to the Welsh discrimination measure.
Effective
2026-01-01
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