Section 11 was implemented by local authorities on 1 April 2009.  Section 11 refers to the Homelessness etc. (Scotland) Act 2003 and is part of the commitment that, by 2012, all unintentionally homeless people will be entitled to a permanent home.

Section 11 places a duty on mortgage lenders, private landlords and/or registered social landlords (RSLs) to inform the relevant local authority when they initiate legal proceedings to repossess a property. The early warning that a section 11 notification provides should allow for information and support to be provided to households. This should prevent homelessness occurring, or will allow a planned approach for suitable alternative accommodation to be found.

Shelter Scotland carried out a survey with local authorities on section 11 and has prepared a briefing.

The Scottish Government have also issued guidance on the implementation of section 11 for local authorities.