Paying rent
This content applies to Scotland only.
Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England
Whether you're a council, housing association or housing co-operative tenant or a private tenant, you pay rent in return for living in your home. This section looks at how rent is paid and what you can do if your rent goes up or you can't afford to pay your rent.
If you are on benefits or a low income, you may be entitled to housing benefit to help you pay your rent.
If you don't pay your rent, you run the risk of being evicted, so if you're in danger of falling behind with your payments, get advice immediately. Use the Advice Services Directory to find details of a Shelter advice centre, Citizens Advice or other advice centre in your area.
What is rent?
Rent is money you pay to your landlord in return for living in your home. Find out more about rent here.
Rent increases
When and how your rent can be increased and what you can do if you disagree with rent increases.Your tenancy agreement may say when your landlord plans to increase your rent.
Fair rents
What 'fair rent' to let a property is, how to apply to a for a fair rent, and how fair rent increases can be introduced.Fair rent is for regulated tenants and housing association tenants only.
Rent and the PRHP
Want to challenge a rent increase - you can apply to the private rented housing panel (PRHP) if you're renting privately from a landlord or letting agent in Scotland.
Withholding rent
Find out about withholding rent from your landlord.If you are considering withholding rent you should know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.Withholding rent can put you at risk of eviction.
