'A common question from the helpline for Wales'

1. An occupation contract does NOT need to be signed

An occupation contract can be created verbally or by conduct (i.e. moving in and paying rent). The written statement is evidence of the contract, not what creates it. 

So in your scenario:Tenant moved in Rent paid correctly for 2 months Terms issued in writing within 14 days That is more than enough to establish a legally binding occupation contract.

2. The 14-day rule is about compliance, not validity

The law requires the landlord to provide a written statement within 14 days. 

If you did comply within 14 days, then:

• You’ve met your statutory duty 

• There is no defect in the contract

  
  

If you hadn’t complied, the consequences would be:

• Potential compensation to the contract-holder 

• Restrictions on serving possession notices 

  
  

But crucially: Even then, the contract would still exist

3. The tenant’s behaviour confirms acceptance

In contract law terms (and this carries into housing law):

• Occupation + payment of rent = acceptance by conduct

• Continued performance over 2 months = strong evidence of agreement

  
  

So even without a signature, the contract is effectively “agreed in practice”.

4. What terms apply if unsigned?

The terms will be:

1. The written statement you issued (assuming it’s correct), PLUS 

2. Any mandatory fundamental terms implied by law 

   
   

If there were errors or omissions:

• The court can impose the Welsh Government model contract terms instead 

  
  

5. Practical letting-agent view (important)

From a real-world enforcement perspective:

• You can rely on the contract 

•  Rent, obligations, and breach provisions apply 

•  BUT always keep proof of service of the written statement 

  
  

Because if challenged, the key issue won’t be signature — it will be:“Can you prove it was given within 14 days?”

Bottom line

• Yes — the contract is fully valid

• Signature is not required

• The tenant’s occupation and rent payment legally confirm the agreement 

• You are compliant if served within 14 days

helpline see here - https://lettingsadviceservice.co.uk/

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