Housing Help
Cymorth Tai
Council housing, homelessness support, private renting rights, and council tax â everything you need to know about housing in Cardiff.
Council Housing
Cardiff Council manages thousands of council homes across the city. Demand is high and waiting times vary depending on your area and circumstances.
To apply, you need to join the Cardiff Housing Waiting List. Applications are assessed on a points-based system that takes into account your current housing situation, medical needs, and other factors.
How to apply
- Apply online through the Cardiff Council website
- You will need proof of identity, income, and current address
- Waiting times vary by area â some areas have very high demand
- You can express a preference for location, but availability is limited
Homelessness Support
If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, Cardiff Council has a legal duty to help you. Do not wait until you are on the street â contact the council as early as possible.
Emergency numbers
Cardiff Housing Options (daytime): 029 2057 0750
Out of hours emergency: 029 2087 3181
Support organisations:
Huggard Centre
Day centre and emergency accommodation, CF10 5BH
The Salvation Army
Support services, Bute Street, Cardiff
Llamau
Young people and vulnerable women
Shelter Cymru
Free housing advice for Wales
Private Renting
If you rent privately in Cardiff, your landlord must be registered with Rent Smart Wales. This is a legal requirement across Wales and helps protect tenants by ensuring landlords meet minimum standards.
Your rights as a tenant
- Your landlord must be registered with Rent Smart Wales
- Your home must meet the Fitness for Human Habitation standard
- Your deposit must be protected in an approved scheme
- You must receive an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- You are entitled to at least 6 months' notice under Welsh law
Problems with your landlord?
Contact Shared Regulatory Services for issues with property conditions, unlicensed landlords, or disputes.
Phone: 0300 123 6696
Council Tax
Council tax pays for local services including schools, roads, rubbish collection, police, and fire services. Almost every household in Cardiff must pay council tax.
How to pay
- Direct debit â the easiest way, set up online or by phone
- Online â pay via the Cardiff Council website
- Phone â 029 2087 2087
- Bank â pay at any bank or building society
- Post Office â pay over the counter
Council tax is normally paid in 10 monthly instalments (April to January). You can request to pay over 12 months instead â contact the council to arrange this.
Discounts and exemptions
- 25% single person discount â if you are the only adult in your home
- Student exemption â full-time students may be fully exempt
- Disability reduction â if your home has been adapted for a disabled person
- Empty property discount â some discounts for unfurnished or empty homes
- Council Tax Reduction Scheme â support for people on low incomes (replaced Council Tax Benefit)
Struggling to pay?
If you are struggling to pay your council tax, contact the council as early as possible. They can help with payment plans, the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, or other support. Ignoring council tax bills can lead to court action and additional costs.
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