Fy Trivallis i

Your Occupation Contract is in the post (Saesneg yn unig)

2 May 2023

Emma Nicholas, Chair of the Tenant Action Panel talks about changes to housing in Wales that do affect you.

What you need to know about your new Occupation Contract

As of 1st December 2022, and the introduction of the Renting Homes (Wales) Act, Tenancy Agreements are now referred to as Occupation Contracts.

Your Occupation Contract is a Legal Contract and automatically replaces your previous Tenancy Agreement. Both you and Trivallis must follow the rules listed in the contract.

You will shortly receive a copy of your contract in the post.

You do not need to sign your Occupation Contract or take any other action but please keep it in a safe place.

 

What does the Occupation Contract do?

The contract sets out the rules and responsibilities Trivallis has as a landlord, and the rules and responsibilities you have as a tenant. These rules are in place to protect you and helps ensure your home is safe, secure and clean; something you may see referred to as Fit for Human Habitation.

If you break the rules, you may be taken to court or lose your home. If Trivallis breaks the rules they can also be taken to court.

The contract sets out Trivallis’ duty to treat you fairly, keep you informed and maintain safe and secure homes that are in good repair.

It also sets out Trivallis’ responsibility to ensure you can live in your home without nuisance or anti-social behaviour from others.

Trivallis also have a duty to deliver support services that have been designed and agreed by tenants, who then monitor the delivery of those services. You can ask your Neighbourhood Manager or Scheme Coordinator about the support available in your area and how to get involved.

 

So what does this mean for you?

You must ensure that you have read and understood the rules set out in your contract.

The contract sets out your responsibility to pay rent and care for your home.

It also explains your duties in keeping your garden clean and tidy, not intentionally damaging things in or around your home; and seeking permission before carrying out any home improvements or alterations.

As the tenant you are also responsible for ensuring that no unlawful activities take place in your home, and that any guests do not cause a nuisance or break the law.

You should treat Trivallis staff with respect and keep Trivallis informed of any changes to who is living in your home.

It is important that you report any repair needs as soon as possible and contact Trivallis if the work is not finished, or is of a poor standard. Your rent covers repairs to fixtures and fittings provided by Trivallis including windows, roofs, heating systems and guttering.

You cannot be treated badly or evicted from your home for reporting repairs or making a complaint. Complaints help Trivallis improve services, so we encourage you to raise issues or give other feedback throughout your tenancy.

If you want to find out more about your Occupation Contract or the Renting Homes (Wales) Act, and what it means for you, visit the Renting Homes (Wales) Act Hub. You can also speak to your Neighbourhood Manager or Scheme Coordinator or contact us.