A critical report on the performance of Welsh landlord and agent regulator Rent Smart Wales has been welcomed after it highlighted both uneven enforcement levels and its ‘abrasive’ communication style.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) also says the report is too vague about what data has been used to assess whether Rent Smart Wales is being effective and that unless a Welsh Housing Survey is completed – the country doesn’t have one – doing so will always be difficult.
The organisation is also concerned by the organisation’s plans to force landlords to provide rent data, saying the Welsh Government has been unable to give an adequate explanation of its purpose or how it will be used.
“We also urge the Welsh Government to ensure that recommendations for Rent Smart Wales to become a more proactive tool for tenants to verify property compliance, do not duplicate or conflict with other proposals for landlords to complete an Annual Property Condition Record (APCR),” says Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the NRLA.
“We welcome the report’s recognition that our previously raised concerns about Rent Smart Wales’ abrasive communication style - the tone has done little to foster positive engagement among landlords, and we are encouraged by the recommendation that more supportive and constructive language should be adopted.
“A fairly regulated private rented sector in Wales is essential, but any new requirements must be targeted and effective and based on evidence.
“This lengthy report sets out how Rent Smart Wales must deliver on its existing obligations before it can even think about expanding the scope of its work. And as the report sets out, it has some way to go.
“Rent Smart Wales needs to demonstrate it can deliver tangible improvements in standards and provide a service that supports, rather than frustrates, compliance.
“This cannot be achieved through unhelpful communication or by making the process unnecessarily difficult for responsible landlords.
“That said, we welcome the report’s findings and look forward to working constructively with both Rent Smart Wales and Welsh Government in making sure these improvements are realised.”
A spokesperson for Cardiff Council, which operates Rent Smart Wales, says: “We are particularly pleased that the report recognises the increased professionalism among letting agents in the private rented sector in Wales, a direct result of the scheme.
“It also highlights that the licensing and registration processes are well-established and operating efficiently.
“Other key findings include widespread satisfaction with the training available to landlords and agents, especially the development of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules, which provide added value to participants.
“We always welcome constructive feedback and suggestions on how Rent Smart Wales can continue to improve. We will now take time to carefully consider the report’s findings and recommendations.
“In due course, we will develop an action plan in collaboration with the Welsh Government and key partners to ensure Rent Smart Wales continues to deliver effectively for landlords, agents, and tenants across Wales.”
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