make it make sense

Landlord & Housing Rights

Understand your rights as a tenant in Scotland. From eviction notices to rent increases, we'll help you make sense of what you've received and what you can do about it.

Got a letter from your landlord?

Paste the contents of your letter below, and we'll explain what it means in plain English and tell you exactly what you should do next.

Common housing letters

The kinds of messages this tool can help you understand.

Rent Increases

Notices about rent going up, valid forms, and challenging unfair increases

Eviction Notices

Notice to Leave, AT6 forms, and the Tribunal eviction process

Repairs & Disrepair

The Repairing Standard, written repair requests, and Tribunal applications

Deposits

Scheme protection, deduction disputes, and the free ADR process

Illegal Eviction

Lock changes, harassment, and threats are criminal offences

Rent Arrears

Letters about late rent and managing arrears before things escalate

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Don't ignore a Notice to Leave thinking you have to be out by that date. It's the earliest your landlord can apply to the Tribunal, not a deadline for you.
  • Don't pay an increased rent before checking the notice is valid. Getting it back later is hard.
  • Don't agree to repairs verbally. Always confirm in writing so you have evidence for the Tribunal if needed.
  • Don't move out without photographing every room. Your deposit dispute case depends on it.
  • Don't skip writing to your landlord about repairs. A written request is required before you can apply to the Tribunal.
  • Don't change locks or stop paying rent over a dispute. Both can weaken your position legally.

Your rights as a tenant

As a private tenant in Scotland, you have legal protections that the law expects your landlord to respect.

  • A formal eviction process. No rushed timelines. Your landlord must serve a Notice to Leave with the correct notice period and apply to the Tribunal.
  • A free Tribunal route. The First-tier Tribunal handles eviction, repairs, deposits and illegal eviction. No fees, no need for a solicitor.
  • A home that meets the Repairing Standard. Wind and watertight, working installations, adequate heating, fire and electrical safety.
  • Deposit protection. Your deposit must be held in an approved scheme with free dispute resolution if there's a disagreement.
  • Protection from harassment and illegal eviction. Lock changes, threats, and forcing you out without process are criminal offences.

Need urgent help? If you're facing illegal eviction, contact Shelter Scotland or call 999 if you're in immediate danger.

Helpful resources

Authoritative external links for Scottish housing law.

Shelter Scotland

Detailed Scottish housing rights guidance and free housing advice

Housing and Property Chamber

The Scottish Tribunal that handles eviction, repairs, deposits, and unlawful eviction cases

Citizens Advice Scotland

Free advice on tenancy issues, rent arrears, and housing rights

Tenancy Rights

Scottish Government guidance on tenant and landlord rights