Rent Smart Wales Celebrates 10 Years as a Cornerstone of Housing Regulation
Rent Smart Wales, the national landlord and agent licensing scheme, marks its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of raising standards in the private rented sector across Wales.
Since its introduction under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, Rent Smart Wales has registered over 216,000 rental properties and 102,000 landlords, issued more than 50,000 licences, and delivered training to over 200,000 people. The initiative has significantly improved understanding of the private rented sector both locally and nationally, ensuring safer and fairer homes for tenants.
Cllr Lynda Thorne, representing Cardiff Council, the licensing authority for Rent Smart Wales, said:
“Ten years ago, Rent Smart Wales was an ambitious venture. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of housing regulation in Wales. Thousands of landlords and agents now better understand their responsibilities, and, most importantly, tenants are living in safer, better-managed homes.”
Jayne Bryant, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, added:
“Rent Smart Wales demonstrates how smart regulation can raise standards across an entire sector. Independent evaluation confirms higher standards, better-informed landlords, and stronger enforcement against those who break the rules. This anniversary marks ten years of effective regulation that has improved renting for everyone in Wales.”
The scheme continues to evolve, focusing on promoting fairness, safety, and professionalism within the private rented sector. Cardiff Council and Welsh Government remain committed to building on this success to ensure that all rental properties in Wales meet the highest standards for tenants and landlords alike.
Key Achievements of Rent Smart Wales (2014–2025):
- Registered 216,000+ rental properties across Wales
- Licensed 50,000+ landlords and agents
- Delivered training to over 200,000 individuals
- Strengthened enforcement against non-compliant landlords
Rent Smart Wales remains a vital tool in shaping a transparent, accountable, and safe rental market, providing landlords, agents, and tenants with the knowledge and support to maintain high housing standards.
