Checklists
This content applies to Scotland only.
Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England
Loads to think about? Don't forget the essentials.
How to use Shelter's checklists
Our handy checklists are designed to help you during busy or stressful times, when you have a lot to think about. Simply download and print them off, then keep them close at hand as a useful reference and tick off things as you tackle them.
To download our checklists, you'll need to have Adobe Reader on your computer. You can download a copy free of charge from the Adobe website.
Buying a home
Home buyers checklist
Looking at a flat or house to buy? Take this checklist with you to make sure it's right for you.
Dealing with the council
Do's and don'ts of applying for benefits
Paying for a home can be expensive, certain benefits may be able to help you meet these costs - use this checklist when applying for benefits.
Things to bring with you to a homeless interview
If you're making a homeless application to the council, it'll speed things up if you're well prepared. Use this checklist to find out what you need to take with you.
Information to include with a housing benefit claim
When you're filling in a housing benefit claim form, you may need to back your answers up with additional information. This checklist shows the things the housing benefit department might want to see.
Finding a place
Accessibility checklist
If you or a member of your family is disabled, you may be looking for a home that is accessible, or that can be adapted to suit your needs. Use the accessibility checklist to find out whether a property is right for you.
Accommodation options in Scotland
Renting or buying? Council housing or private let? Check out the pros and cons of different housing options here.
Accessibility checklist large print
Large print version of the accessibility checklist.
Rental properties checklist
Looking for a place to rent? It's hard to remember all the things to look out for when you go and see a new property. This useful checklist has all the essential questions you'll want to ask the landlord, and all the potential problems to look out for.
Going to court
Raising a small claims action checklist
You can download our handy checklist of things to do if you're taking someone to court using small claims procedure.
Leaving home
Leaving home for the first time
Leaving home for the first time is a big step, so you'll need to make sure you're well prepared. This handy checklist has all the things you'll need to think about before you take the plunge.
Leaving home in a hurry
If you're experiencing problems at home and want to leave as soon as you can, download this essential leaving home information to take with you.
Living with a partner
Moving in together
Moving in with your partner can be exciting and fun. However, it's important that you think carefully about the implications: living together as a couple can affect your finances and your right to stay in your home. This download lists the things you'll need to think about.
Splitting up
Separating from your husband, wife or partner is never going to be easy. At the same time as coping with the emotional fallout, you will also find yourself faced with a lot of practical and potentially distressing decisions concerning your home, your financial circumstances and your children. This checklist provides an overview of the things you'll need to think about.
Moving home
Essential items for a new home
Use this checklist to make sure your new home has everything you need - and don't forget the teabags!
Things to do when you move home
Moving home is always stressful - make things easier by using this handy checklist.
