The countdown is under way for when letting agents and private landlords throughout Wales will have to be licensed.

This week, Rent Smart Wales was launched ahead of the implementation this autumn of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014.

The exact date has yet to be announced and the Rent Smart Wales website is not yet fully operational. However, agents and landlords will be able to apply for licences through it, and tenants will be able to check whether their landlord is registered.

The scheme will require all private landlords to register both themselves and their properties. If the landlord wants to manage their own property, they will need to demonstrate they are “fit and proper” and to undertake training.

Landlords who do not have a licence to manage their own properties would have to appoint a licensed agent to manage the property on their behalf.

The agent will also have to undergo approved training.

After the first year of operation, enforcement powers will be introduced in autumn 2016, including fixed penalties and prosecutions.

The Labour-dominated Welsh Assembly has devolved powers over housing. The licensing measures are opposed by the Tories.

The Rent Smart Wales website is here