Agents warned that landlords may be confused over licensing system
Summary
Propertymark has warned that many landlords in Wales may misunderstand the Rent Smart Wales licensing regime, with most fixed penalty notices linked to failures to register or obtain the correct licence. The guidance stresses that registration and licensing are separate requirements, and that agents should verify both landlord and property status before marketing or managing a let.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors involved in rental property advice, portfolio reviews or due diligence in Wales need to understand the distinction between registration and licensing, as non-compliance can affect management arrangements and regulatory risk. The article also highlights the importance of maintaining accurate records and checking for changes in ownership or management status.
Key points
- Most FPNs issued by Rent Smart Wales were for registration or licensing failures.
- Registration alone does not mean a landlord is licensed to manage property.
- Agents should confirm landlord and property registration before undertaking regulated work.
- Records of checks, reference numbers and expiry dates should be kept and reviewed regularly.
- Applications should be submitted early because approval can take several weeks.
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