The Welsh Government has temporarily increased the notice period landlords must provide from three months to six months to end Assured and Assured Shorthold Tenancies.

ARLA Propertymark has confirmed that this effects notices served under Section 8 (but excluding notices specifying Grounds 7A and 14) and Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988.

The Regulations apply to notices given on or after July 24 and will apply to notices served until September 30 this year.

In a written statement, Housing Minister Julie James says: “The effect will to be to further delay evictions during the ongoing public health emergency; fewer people will face eviction into homelessness at a time when local authorities are less able to respond to these situations; those renting their homes will benefit from increased security and reduced anxiety; and individuals at risk of eviction will be provided with increased time to seek support to resolve any problems.”

The new regulations can be introduced because the Coronavirus Act which was passed in March gives powers to the governments in Westminster and Cardiff as the “relevant national authority” to alter the period from three to six months.