If you rent out a property, you must register with us. This helps make sure landlords are suitable and protects tenants from poor practice. You have clear rights, and you must meet legal standards before and during a tenancy. This page explains what you can do, what you must do, and how to take action or get help.
Your rights as a landlord
You have the right to:
- set and change the market rent
- agree tenancy terms before the tenancy starts
- receive rent on time
- be told about repairs that are needed
- receive proper notice if a tenant plans to leave
Your responsibilities
You must keep the property in a good, safe condition. Your tenancy agreement should clearly state who is responsible for repairs.
Under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006, your property must meet the required standard at the start of the tenancy and throughout it.
Before the tenancy starts
You must inspect the property and deal with any issues. You should also tell the tenant about any work that is needed.
Make sure the property:
- is wind and watertight and fit to live in
- the structure and exterior, drains, gutters and pipes are in good repair
- has safe and working water, gas, electricity, heating and sanitation systems
- any fixtures, fittings and appliances provided under the tenancy are safe and in working order
- any furnishings provided under the tenancy are safe and in working order
- has the correct number of smoke alarms Scottish Government guidance on satisfactory provisions for detecting and warning of fires
During the tenancy
You must carry out repairs within a reasonable time once you know about a problem. This will often be when a tenant reports it to you.
Registration and legal duties
You must be registered as a landlord. To check a registration or apply:
- visit the Landlord Registration Scotland website
- or contact our Landlord Registration team
If you start legal action to repossess a property, or serve certain mortgage notices, you must tell us under Section 11 of the Homelessness (Scotland) Act 2003.
Support and advice
- for help with repair standards, contact the Housing and Property Chamber
- for product safety in rented homes, see guidance from Consumer and Trading Standards
- if there is anti-social behaviour, contact our anti-social behaviour team
Take action
- register or check a landlord: use the Landlord Registration Scotland service
- get advice on repairs: contact the Housing and Property Chamber
- report anti-social behaviour: contact our team