Private tenant advice

We can provide help and advice to private tenants about all aspects of renting a home privately.

Private tenants' rights and responsibilities are explained in the Tenant Information Pack, which all landlords must give new tenants.

The pack covers many subjects under the following headings:

  • Your tenancy
  • Information about the property
  • Information about your landlord
  • Responsibilities of tenants and landlords

More information is available on the Scottish Government’s website.

Frequently asked questions

  1. Is my landlord registered?
  2. Am I living in a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO)?
  3. How do I complain about my landlord not carrying out repairs to my rented property?
  4. Deposits – what do I need to know?
  5. How can I receive help with paying my deposit for a private let?
  6. How can I get help to pay my rent?
  7. Where can I get free independent housing advice?
  8. What are my landlord’s health and safety obligations?

Is my landlord registered?

You can check this on the Landlord Registration website.

Am I living in a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO)?

HMOs are tenancies that are let to three or more people who are not related. HMO landlords must get a HMO licence from us.

Further information of HMO licensing is available at Shelter Scotland and on the Scottish Government website.

How do I complain about my landlord not carrying out repairs to my rented property?

The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing & Property Chamber) can give advice on repairs guidance for tenants. 

Deposits – what do I need to know?

Your landlord must put your deposit in one of three government based schemes. More information is available from the Scottish Government's website.

How can I receive help with paying my deposit for a private let?

Our deposit guarantee scheme can help with your deposit. It helps people who do not have a cash deposit by giving the landlord a written guarantee.

How can I get help to pay my rent?

If you are on a low income, you may be able to get Housing Benefit.

Where can I get free independent housing advice?

Shelter Scotland offer free advice on homelessness, renting from a private landlord, mortgage arrears and finding a place to live.

What are my landlord’s health and safety obligations?

Please see your Tenant Information Pack for details.