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Know your renting rights

The regulations around private renting are changing from 1 April 2024. Tenants are still protected by the law. 

It's important to know what support and advice is available to you.

Learn more about your rights as a tenant.

Scottish rural home with super-imposed message: all tenants have rights that are set in stone

Rent increases

Your landlord can only increase your rent once every 12 months and must give you three months notice before any increase.

If you think a rent increase is too high, you can apply to Rent Service Scotland for a rent adjudication. There's no need to worry about speaking up - this is your legal right.

Find out what to do if you think your rent increase is too high.

Rent adjudication process

If you receive a rent increase notice that seems unreasonable, you can ask for it to be reviewed. The process is straightforward:

  • send your application to Rent Service Scotland
  • an independent adjudicator will compare your rent to similar properties in your area
  • they'll decide if the increase is fair based on market rates
  • their decision is legally binding

Learn more about rent increases and asking for a review.

Eviction rights

From 1 April 2024, the temporary emergency protections have stopped. You still have strong protections and a landlord cannot ask you to leave your rented property without notice.

Landlords must go through the legal process to end a tenancy. Illegal eviction is a criminal offence and can take different forms. 

Get housing advice from your local council.

Glaswegian tenement block with super-imposed message: you can't be asked to move out of your home without notice

Check before you rent

Before starting a tenancy you should make sure:

  • your landlord is registered with the local council
  • you get a written tenancy agreement
  • the property meets safety standards including fire safety
  • you get a clear breakdown of any fees (many fees are illegal in Scotland)
  • you understand your rights and responsibilities

Only use a registered landlord and letting agent and report any that are not.

Check if your landlord is registered.

Check if your agent is registered.

New build house with super-imposed message: your home must be maintained and repaired by your landlord

Repairs and maintenance

It is the landlord’s responsibility to repair and maintain their property from the tenancy start date and throughout the tenancy. Landlords must also give you prior notice before any maintenance or property inspections. They’re not allowed to enter the property unannounced.

Learn more about repairs and maintenance.

Cost of living support Scotland graphic.

Cost of Living Support Scotland

The Cost of Living Support website has information on the help and resources available to the people of Scotland during the cost of living crisis.

Find out more on Cost of Living Support Scotland.

Rights that are set in stone

Watch this short video for more information on your renting rights.

 

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Citizens Advice Bureau

Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for free, impartial and confidential advice and guidance on issues relating to housing matters.

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Shelter Scotland

Speak to Shelter Scotland for housing advice.

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Mygov.scot

Visit mygov.scot for information on renting from a private landlord, housing association or local council.

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