The Welsh Government’s communities and children secretary, Carl Sargeant, is calling on tenants to have their say on proposals to ban agents’ fees levied on tenants in the principality. 

A formal consultation is now underway as part of the Welsh Government’s Fees Charged to Tenants Bill. 

The Cardiff-based government says research shows that 84 per cent of the agents who have responded to the consultation themselves charge a set up fee.

The average cost to tenants of setting up a tenancy is £178; this and other fees levied on tenants make up 19 per cent of agents’ income – around £10m in total according to the Welsh Government.

“I launched the consultation into fees charged to tenants in the private rented sector last month but so far, the biggest response has been from landlords and lettings agents. While I encourage everyone with an interest to participate in this consultation I particularly want to hear from tenants to ensure we have as wide a range of views as possible” says Sargeant.

“I want to know the extent of the fees charged, what those fees cover and understand the implications of the removal of these fees for letting agents, landlords, tenants and any third parties involved in the private rented sector.”