Retaliatory eviction - Citizens Advice

Shelter Cymru & Citizens Advice CymruMaking rights real: preventing retaliatory evictions in WalesMost respondents agreed that there was definitely concern from tenants about making formal complaints.“Tenants may complain about aspects of their property but when they realise that the Environmental HealthOfficer has to inform the landlord they often retract their complaint.” (Local authority survey respondent)“Tenants want an ‘unofficial’ inspection of the property, which we're not allowed to do due to therequirements of the Housing Act.” (Local authority survey respondent)“Recent monitoring of this area has identified tenants’ concern to be a big issue.” (Local authority surveyrespondent)Respondents also pointed to the fact that many tenants may not contact them at all due to concernsabout retaliation.“We are unable to gauge how many do not contact us at all. We have numerous clients who contact us foradvice and do not make a further complaint – this may be because they then realise the implications. Someclients specifically say they do not want our involvement due to the fear of retaliation.” (Local authoritysurvey respondent)Respondents were asked whether they believed there needed to be more security for tenants whenexercising their statutory rights.Over half (55 per cent) thought that there was a definite need for more tenant security, with a further38 per cent believing that it was a possible solution. Only two respondents thought more security wasunnecessary.Do you believe there needs to be more security for private tenants when they areexercising their statutory rights?DefinitelyPossiblyNot needed0% 20%40% 60% 80%Figure 2: Percentage of respondents indicating whether they believe there needs to be more security forprivate tenants when they are exercising their statutory rights.22