When you become a landlord, you must get landlord buildings and contents insurance for your property. Unlike standard homeowners insurance, landlord insurance is specifically designed to cover the unique risks associated with renting out property and includes public liability insurance should anything happen to your tenant in your premises. Why do …

Signing up to a tenancy agreement is an important legal process, one which is not necessarily ‘taught’ at any stage in formal education. People tend to learn about obtaining a tenancy by Googling information, asking others about their experiences, or worse still, getting it wrong and learning from their own, …

Lots of terminology to deal with while renting or managing rented property? At SafeDeposits Scotland we work hard to make deposit protection the easiest part of the process. In this A-Z series we aim to put some of the key terminology, and other considerations, front and centre to help you …

Lots of terminology to deal with while renting or managing a rented property? At SafeDeposits Scotland we work hard to make deposit protection the easiest part of the process. In this A-Z series we aim to put some of the key terminology, and other considerations, front and centre to help …

The UK government’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative was first announced in 2015 and represents a significant shift in how landlords must report and manage their tax obligations. Designed to modernise the tax system, MTD aims to make it easier for businesses and individuals to keep accurate records and submit returns online. …

At the end of February, the Scottish Government released the findings of the Independent Working Group on Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), with several of the recommendations related to the issue of housing. The report highlighted the great variety in approach that different housing providers take in tackling ASB and that there is …

Renovating your rental property can significantly boost its value and appeal by directly addressing the specific preferences and expectations of local tenants. A well-planned renovation strategy enhances rental returns, making your property more attractive in a competitive market. By carefully understanding what Scottish renters value most, you can create a unique and …

Ever walk into your rental flat and feel like it’s missing ‘you’, that spark of personality that makes a space a home? However, you don’t need a big budget or a landlord’s blessing to change that. It can be as simple as swapping out shower heads to one that you feel suits your …

Scotland stands at the forefront of a green energy revolution, with ambitious targets for renewable energy adoption that present unique opportunities for buy-to-let property owners. Renewable electricity generation in Scotland is now equivalent to around 97% of its gross electricity consumption, and the growing opportunities for renewables has translated into a significant …

What brings ye’ tae bonnie Scotland? Are you relocating for work, for university, for a new beginning? Whatever your reason, you now have fewer worries, dear mover, because moving is easier with Lettingweb helping you find your new home. As luck would have it, there is simply no better time to live in …

Lots of terminology to deal with while renting or managing rented property? At SafeDeposits Scotland we work hard to make deposit protection the easiest part of the process. In this A-Z series we aim to put some of the key terminology, and other considerations, front and centre to help you …

Under UK law, landlords have a duty of care to their tenants, which means they have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to keep their property in safe working order. But if they breach this duty and a tenant is injured in the property, they could be liable and required …

Scotland’s private rental sector in 2025 presents significant challenges for both tenants and landlords. With rental prices reaching unprecedented levels, a persistent shortage of available properties, and evolving government policies, securing affordable accommodation has become increasingly difficult. Rents in Scotland Continue to Rise Rental prices in Scotland have experienced a notable upward …

The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Saving Provision) (Scotland) Regulations 2025 Prior to the pandemic and cost of living crisis, rent increases were not subject to much attention in the Scottish PRS. This is because landlords rarely sought to increase the rent during a tenancy, often allowing the rent to remain …

Most tenancies go ahead without incident, tenants move in, pay their rent and look after the property. However, that is not always the case and where a tenant leaves a property sometimes the security deposit taken is not enough to pay for damage caused meaning a landlord has to consider …

2024 proved to be another rollercoaster year for landlords and property investors in Scotland. With a wave of new legislative, regulatory, and tax changes, many of us are reeling under the weight of all the changes the PRS has seen. Changes to the Repairing Standard From 1st March 2024, several new requirements were …

Should a landlord wish to make a claim for part or all of the deposit at the end of the tenancy, Scotland's tenancy deposit schemes offer alternative dispute resolution (ADR). For deposits held by SafeDeposits Scotland there are six different heads of claim under which landlords can make a claim: …

Lots of terminology to deal with while renting or managing rented property? At SafeDeposits Scotland we work hard to make deposit protection the easiest part of the process. In this A-Z series we aim to put some of the key terminology, and other considerations, front and centre to help you …

Lots of terminology to deal with while renting or managing rented property? At SafeDeposits Scotland we work hard to make deposit protection the easiest part of the process. In this A-Z series we aim to put some of the key terminology, and other considerations, front and centre to help you …

The Scottish Government has announced proposals for the extensive reform of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). The aim of these reforms is to make EPCs more accurate in measuring the energy efficiency and easy for property owners to understand. The changes themselves are a little complicated, so at Under One Roof, …

Renting out properties in Scotland is very competitive. Rents are increasing every year, with the average rent of a one-bed property at £856 per month. With these rising costs come greater expectations and requests from tenants. If you want to stay competitive and win great tenants, this article is for you with …

As the Housing Bill continues to journey through Parliament, can consensus and common sense prevail in allowing tenants to decorate their homes as they see fit? A recent look around at the homes available for rent in Glasgow demonstrated a huge diversity of properties available, but also a huge variety of …

What to know regarding rent increases on Private Rented Tenancies. How much can the tenant’s rent increase by? The landlord can propose an increase of any amount. If the tenant wishes to challenge the increase they can refer it to the rent officer*. If the application to the rent officer is made …

February is here, and marks the big day for everyone where they express their affection for the one they love the most. That’s right, February 20th marks National Love Your Pet Day. Almost half of adults in Scotland are pet owners, and many look to their pets for comfort and companionship. For …

Council tax legislation sets out a hierarchy of people who are responsible for council tax which can be read here. The first person in the hierarchy list for the period in question is responsible for paying the council tax for that period. Put simply, in the case of a private rented sector …

February is a good time to take stock of your finances and your home after the post-festive period which often leaves people recovering from the over-spending on food, presents, and festive outings like trips to the pantomime. With early December salaries stretched thin, January can feel like a long month. …

The most recent statistical analysis of the work and the case load of the First-tier Tribunal: Housing and Property Chamber (HPC) which covers the period 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023 has been released recently and makes interesting reading. The full publication can be found here. What volume of cases were …

Following a consultation in 2023, the Scottish Government has announced proposals for the extensive reform of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), with the aim of making them more accurate and easy for property owners to understand. Every property that is being sold or rented has an EPC, which rates the property’s energy efficiency from …

As a landlord in the UK, staying attuned to shifts in the private rented sector (PRS) is crucial for ensuring your properties remain competitive and desirable. One of the most notable changes in recent years is the increasing age of tenants within the PRS. While younger renters have traditionally dominated …

As important as it is at this time of year to check road conditions, it is just as important to make sure that your flat stays dry and secure during the winter weather. This article shares tips on how to look after your tenement property during the winter season or …

Owning a rental property can be very profitable. However, it can be very overwhelming for a landlord to find reliable tenants, understand legislation and navigate through the ever changing goal posts. Finance management, debt collection and managing repairs/maintenance is not for the faint hearted. This can become very stressful for …

‘Tis the season to be jolly – but there is nothing jolly at all about facing a deposit dispute at the end of a tenancy. From decorations that have been left up when the tenancy moves out to damage that has been caused by harsh weather conditions during the winter, …

Glasgow Property Letting will close Friday 20th December 2024 and open again Monday 6th January 2025. Any emergencies can be reported using the 24/7 servicehttps://glasgowpropertyletting.fixflo.com/issuereport/CreateIssue We would like to take the opportunity to wish all our Landlord clients, tenants, potential tenants and Partner companies a wonderful time over the festive period and …

Does absence of landlord registration invalidate the tenancy agreement? Readers will be aware it is an offence for a landlord to let property in Scotland unless registered with the local authority landlord register. If convicted, landlords face a fine of up to £50,000. While the absence of a landlord registration is a …

In cases where the landlord or letting agent has made a claim against a tenant's deposit in Scotland for damage to property, fair wear and tear and betterment are two concepts that adjudicators will consider before making an award. Both landlords and tenants should ensure that they are well aware …

A recent article published in The Herald, written by John Blackwood, Chief Executive of Scottish Association of Landlords, called for a reset in relations between the government and the private rented sector. In the same month, Scottish Labour signaled that they were, in principle, supportive of rent controls. The impasse between …

When a landlord claims part of the tenant’s deposit, the inventory is a vital document that adjudicators will use to understand the state of the property at both the start and end of the tenancy. It is unlikely that the property at the end of the tenancy, particularly for longer …

Damp and mould is a common problem area for landlords and their tenants, regardless of the age of the rental property. It’s important that both parties understand the causes and best ways to prevent the problems from worsening. RICS accredited Surveyors Walker Management have written this useful guide to help …

The proposed Housing (Scotland) Bill that has been put forward to the Scottish Parliament introduces several amendments which affect private rented tenancies. One of the changes the Bill proposes relates to the tenant’s right to personalise the property. Section 30 of the Bill outlines the two amendments relating to greater …

The start of the academic year brings a fresh batch of bright-eyed, bushy-tailed new students into the private-rented sector (PRS) as they navigate the trials of living away from their parents for the first time, adopting new responsibilities and facing new challenges. Similarly, students who have just finished university and …

Scotland has a healthy commercial property market, with Peter Walker of the Business Insider reporting that Scotland has seen an increase of 4% in the first half of the year despite an overall decrease in the rest of the UK1. With businesses attracted to Scotland, renters will follow bringing with …

Scotland’s ambitious climate change targets mean private landlords need to start thinking now about switching to more energy-efficient and sustainable heating sources. While the details of new legislation are still being debated, the Scottish Government’s target is to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. We can all agree that …

As the nights grow longer and the air turns cooler, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your property warm and dry this winter. One effective way to do this is by making energy efficiency improvements. Enhancing your property’s energy efficiency can help reduce fuel costs, make your home …

With the conclusion of the 2024 Paris Paralympics games and the visibility given to the determination, endeavor and success of so many disabled participants, it is timely to reflect on how our housing system supports and enables people with disabilities to fulfil their potential. Such reflection also comes at a time …

You might have many questions about how the process works, especially if it’s your first time renting in Scotland. Here, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you feel equipped to proceed with your property search. How should I start searching for a rental property? Get organised! First …

An ageing population means that homes will have to be adapted to help older renters cope with the challenges that being elderly can bring and landlords have a major role to play in making the necessary changes It is estimated that by 2050, 24.8 per cent of the UK’s population will be …

Whilst John Swinney settles into his post as First Minister, many in the housing sector consider how they can reset relations with the SNP government, and what the new administration will do with the contested Housing Bill, there remains one area within the proposed new statute that should be scaled …

Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, renting can present its fair share of challenges. Though it’s also a financially rewarding venture and provides more freedom in living choices, there are pain points in the process to watch out for. For a smoother rental process, it’s smart to prepare yourself …

On the 1st of March 2024, the government introduced several new measures to the Repairing Standard in Scotland, which landlords legally must comply with throughout the duration of a tenancy. Private rented homes are legally required to follow these standards of repair and so landlords and letting agents will need to ensure that …

As the weather begins to warm up, it’s the perfect time of year to give your tenement building a thorough spring clean. Follow this guide to learn what to look out for this spring to ensure your tenement stays warm, dry, safe, and in good working order. Checking the common close …

The flowers are in full bloom as we have now entered the warmer seasons, and for tenants with gardens, this means they will likely be spending a lot more of their time outside than previously. Many will be taking to the gardens for barbeques with friends or lounging on a …

The Scottish Law Commission recently published a discussion paper containing provisional proposals for the introduction of owners’ associations. The paper runs to over 200 pages and follows a recommendation in 2018 that establishing owners associations could help improve the condition of tenements throughout Scotland. Landlords should note that a ‘tenement’ includes any …

Properly maintaining the area below ground level is crucial for preserving the structural integrity of tenement buildings. This includes ensuring adequate ventilation, preventing moisture build-up, and addressing any issues with dampness or rot. Whether the building has a basement or just a solum (the space beneath the ground floor), taking …

There are a variety of reasons why landlords and letting agents may claim against deposits in Scotland at the end of a tenancy. Each room of the property also has its own considerations that range from damage to cleanliness. Regular readers of our Key Matters magazine will already be aware of our …

Not every home has a garden, and as such claims relating to gardens observed by tenancy deposit schemes in Scotland tend to be less frequent than those originating in other areas of a property. Whereas issues such as cleaning or damage can crop up in any household, gardening claims will …

When it comes to toilets and bathrooms, there is no one size fits all. Some toilets take the shape of under the stair conveniences whereas may be luxurious suites with whirlpool baths. Some bathrooms will have a bath, others will have only a shower, and many have both. Every bathroom …

As explained in previous blogs, the temporary changes introduced by the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022 on 31 October 2022 ended on 31 March 2024. So, whilst new rules come into play for adjudicating rent disputes, the end of the 2022 Act also means the expiry of the provisions …

The Repairing Standard is in place to ensure that the property or properties of private landlords meet the minimum physical standard of repair. The recent updates, enforceable since 1st March 2024, introduced changes concerning the common areas of tenement buildings, requiring collaboration and consent amongst owners to implement. This includes ensuring …

If you’re considering becoming a landlord in Scotland, it’s fair to say you will likely have many questions about what’s involved, especially while legislation is so fresh, and the market has been through some intense challenges in recent years. In this article, we’re answering some of the questions that landlords and prospective …

There are a variety of reasons why landlords and letting agents may claim against deposits in Scotland at the end of a tenancy. Each room of the property also has its own considerations that range from damage to cleanliness. Regular readers of our Key Matters magazine will already be aware of our …

Not every home has a garden, and as such claims relating to gardens observed by tenancy deposit schemes in Scotland tend to be less frequent than those originating in other areas of a property. Whereas issues such as cleaning or damage can crop up in any household, gardening claims will …

Some tenancies in Scotland will have had the same tenants for years or even decades, but there are many situations which may result in a change to a property’s occupancy. Instances where all tenants move out are fairly straightforward, but there are different circumstances where it is not so much …

Propertymark has responded to the Scottish Government’s consultation on their proposed Heat in Buildings Bill, which aims to reduce carbon emissions in buildings and contribute towards the Scottish Government’s ambitious 2045 Net Zero Target. The leading trade body for property agents, has warned that to prevent further shrinkage in the supply …

Renting a property goes beyond merely providing a living space; it’s about creating a welcoming environment where tenants feel comfortable and valued. As a landlord or property manager, fostering a sense of belonging for your renters not only improves tenant satisfaction but also encourages longer-term leases and positive word-of-mouth referrals. …

The Scottish Government has confirmed the rent increase procedure which will apply when the rent cap legislation ends on 31 March 2024.For rent increase notices issued from 1 April 2024 onwards, the landlord can propose an increase of any amount. If the tenant wishes to challenge the increase they can …

Throughout autumn and winter, tenement buildings and flats often encounter a variety of common maintenance issues. In this article, learn some top tips to protect your property and preserve its value during the colder months. Draughty windows and doors One of the easiest issues to address when it comes to protecting your …

When the sun comes out, we can wear a pair of sunglasses to protect our eyes. When the temperatures drop during the winter, we can wear a hat, scarf and gloves to keep ourselves warm. And when the heavens open up and the rain starts pouring, an umbrella can shield …

For over a decade, the Scottish Government has been planning to introduce a minimum energy efficiency standard for properties in the private rented sector (PRS). Over that time plans and proposed introduction dates have changed several times. Unlike in England, there is currently no minimum energy performance certificate (EPC) requirement …

With so many of us working from home on various days during the week, having an appealing and practical area to work in has become one of the most desirable features in today’s rentals. This article explores six ways to design a great workspace in a rental, whether you’re a landlord …

Good morning, Hope that you are well and received the email from landlord registration regarding the repairing standard update.  If you have not I suggest you log into https://www.landlordregistrationscotland.gov.uk/ to check that the details held for you are the correct ones. Glasgow Property Letting were in Edinburgh on Wednesday 8th November for …

The Court of Session has today published its decision in the judicial review case raised by SAL and its coalition partners (Scottish Land & Estates and Propertymark) in respect of the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022. The decision has found in favour of the government, ruling that the …

The landscape of work has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, with “remote work” emerging as a predominant force shaping this transformation. As the concept of remote work has moved from being a niche to a mainstream mode of employment, it has rippled its effects across various sectors – …

The new guidance prepared by the Scottish Government in relation to the Repairing Standard under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 takes effect from 1 March 2024. One area that has caused some concern amongst landlords is the issue of lead in drinking water and what their responsibilities are. The main …

 The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act – Update Hello, The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022 came into force in October 2022 and introduced extra protections for tenants. The Act aims to protect tenants by temporarily: restricting landlords from increasing the amount of rent they can …

When it comes to cleaning a property, lots of things can stand out for immediate attention. Dust on a mantlepiece, crumbs on a carpet, cooking stains on a hob, hairspray residue on a mirror… These will be obvious tasks to attend to before checking out at the end of a …

As part of changes to the Repairing Standard, landlords are required to ensure their rental properties are free of lead by 1 March 2024. Government guidance on this requirement was published in March 2023 and since then SAL has been in dialogue with the government over some elements of the …

The Scottish Parliament approved legislation on the 20th September 2023 to extend the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection)(Scotland) Act 2022 (COLA) from 30 September 2023 to 31 March 2024. 83 MSPs voted in favour of the extension and just 27 voted against it. This is the final extension permitted under …

The UK government announced yesterday that it would scrap plans to require landlords to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. As energy policy is devolved this announcement does not apply to properties in Scotland. The Scottish Government is expected to publish a consultation later this year on a Heat in Buildings …

Under the terms of a joint tenancy all tenants are required to give notice to end the contract. If onechooses to leave without notice being given by all tenants to end the tenancy then the outgoing tenantwill remain responsible for the terms of the lease, even if they are choosing …

Do you know how to deal with a water leak in your rental property? It’s every tenant’s nightmare – the damage, the mess, the stress – but knowing what to do if you discover a water leak will help you to act quickly. You’ll be able to minimise the impact …

When starting a new lease, one of the biggest decisions is whether to take a property already equipped with furnishings or opt for an empty space to gradually fill with your own belongings. Both options have their merits when flexibility, costs and personal style are considered, and there is demand …

In response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on increasing council tax premiums for second and empty homes, Propertymark members in a recent survey said they strongly oppose the proposal. Instead, incentives should be provided to homeowners to make vacant homes more productive and help combat the ever-growing gap in supply …

With the changing legislative landscape for landlords, there is empirical and substantial anecdotal evidence to suggest that landlords are seeking to recover possession more and more for reasons other than for rent arrears. Whether that be to sell properties to exit the private rented sector (in whole or part) or to recover …

Fire safety in rental properties is an essential concern for landlords in Scotland. The legal framework varies between Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and non-HMO properties and understanding these differences is crucial. This guide provides a straightforward overview of the legal responsibilities, safety measures, and practical considerations for landlords, aiming to simplify …

When landlords decide to rent property, they are unlikely to expect anti-social behaviour (ASB) from their tenants. Unfortunately, ASB can occur and landlords are responsible for dealing with this when it takes place in and around their properties. This article outlines steps landlords can take to address anti-social tenants. Initial complaints …

Local authority chief executives and housing officers have joined calls for the Cost of Living Act (COLA) legislation to be lifted. This is the legislation which introduced the eviction moratorium and rent freeze/rent caps. A report produced by the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives and Senior Managers (Solace) Scotland …

When you have a rental property, finding a tenant can be one of the biggest concerns you might have. Sourcing a good tenant can be difficult; after all, you are entrusting them with your most significant asset, so you need to feel comfortable and confident that they will look after …

In June 2023 Glasgow property letting ltd and Glasgow city plumbers started a working collaboration for plumbing repairs, gas safety and service inspections. So far we think it has been rather successful! Glasgow City Plumbers provide a full 24 hour Commercial & Domestic Plumbing Service to businesses, homes or small …

Although empty properties might seem hard to come by in today’s market where demand for rentals is high, leaving a property vacant can open it up to increased risks of theft, vandalism and deterioration. As a landlord, it is crucial to be aware of security challenges and know what measures to take …

It's not uncommon for unpaid utility bills to be left behind after a tenant moves out - but is it the landlord or tenant who should foot the bill? This depends on what's specified in the tenancy agreement and whose name is registered with the utility companies.If the landlord is …

For landlords, managing rental property effectively requires a systematic approach. Being a landlord is not simply a passive income source; it demands organisation, diligent communication and keeping on top of essential responsibilities. Failure to do so can mean costly mistakes, loss of good tenants and legal trouble. This article provides …

What is or what is not the only or principal home of a tenant is a concept that has been with those operating in the private rented sector for many years. It is a concept that was carried forward into the Private Housing (Tenancies)(Scotland) Act 2016 (the 2016 Act). It …

Scottish landlord heating obligations Under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016, landlords in Scotland have certain obligations regarding heating in rented properties. Similar to the UK laws, having a functioning heating system, including a boiler, is a fundamental requirement for compliance. According to the Act, landlords are required to ensure that the heating …

With rising rents being accompanied by rising mortgage costs across Scotland just now, many households are having a debate about whether to rent or buy. There are various sentiment surveys out recently that have been examining renting vs buying. This particularly affects younger households, including those deciding on whether now is a good …

Whether you’re feeling the pinch of the current cost of living crisis or want to do more to fight the climate emergency, it’s time to start thinking about how to save energy at home during the summer. According to the Energy Saving Trust, more than half of the energy bill for …

Drama down under The demands of an Australian landlord recently went viral, reaching these shores via platforms such as Reddit and online news outlets. The story concerned a landlord checklist issued to tenants ahead of routine mid-tenancy inspections, with 20 points ranging from “light fittings must be wiped and free of insects” to …

Members will be aware that for some time the Scottish Government has been intending to introduce a minimum EPC requirement in the private rented sector. Proposals announced in 2021 were to introduce a requirement for PRS properties to have an EPC rating of C at change of tenancy from 2025 …

Getting to know who the co-owners are in your building is important as having a list of their names and contact details can improve communication and allows for better decision-making between owners. This can make the process of organising repairs and dealing with any issues in your building easier. If …

As a landlord, it’s imperative that your rental property is as secure and safe as possible. Any prospective tenant that you let the property to will demand some form of security measures as a bare minimum. Luckily, with the continued rise and availability of smart home technology, there are plenty of …