Housing law: housing agricultural workers in Wales
This guidance is intended to be used for general information purposes, is not intended to be a definitive guide to the law and cannot be a substitute for independent advice. NFU members get free initial legal and professional advice from NFU CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.
Important new changesÂ
New anti-discrimination rules come into force on 1st June 2026. Existing occupation contracts must be updated by 14th June 2026 to include the new provisions. For more information see:
- UK Government Renters' Rights Act 2025 - Rent Smart Wales
- or our business guide Setting up an occupation contract in Wales at: https://www.nfuonline.com/member-resources/housing-law-setting-up-an-occupation-contract-in-wales/.
It is essential that everyone who provides accommodation to another person in Wales considers whether the Renting Homes (Wales) Act applies to them. The scope is much broader than previous housing legislation and applies to most situations where housing is provided, not just tenancies.
The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 changes the provisions for agricultural workers living in housing provided by an employer. From 1 December 2022, new agricultural workers do not have any special status in housing law and will instead be treated like any other occupier.
This business guide provides guidance on the law which governs the provision of housing for agricultural worker in Wales. It will focus on the types of agreements available for agricultural workers, and the rights conferred.
Please note that this guide relates to agricultural workers living in Wales only.