Landlord guide for Cardiff
Cardiff landlords work under Welsh rules, where Rent Smart Wales registration and licensing sit alongside the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 contract regime.
Licensing and local rules
- Every Welsh landlord must register with Rent Smart Wales, and anyone managing must be licensed.
- Mandatory HMO licensing applies to larger shared houses through the council.
- Occupation contracts, not tenancy agreements, are the correct legal form in Wales.
What the local market looks like
- Student demand around Cathays and Roath is strong and highly seasonal.
- Professional demand in the bay and city centre is steadier year round.
- Welsh paperwork differs from England, so do not reuse English templates.
Your council
Licensing designations change, so always confirm the position for the exact address with the local authority before you let.