The Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 came into force on 1 December 2017, introducing a new 'private residential tenancy'. The new PRT improves security for tenants and provide safeguards for landlords, lenders and investors.
Make sure you’re not left in the dark about how the new rules affect you.
Rental agreements will no longer have an end date
This means that you and your landlord don’t have to wait an agreed amount of time before being able to end the tenancy.
No more ‘no reason’ grounds for eviction
You can’t be asked to move out of your property for no reason. Unless you give notice that you want to leave, or your landlord gives one or more of the 18 reasons for eviction, your tenancy will continue.
New limits on rent increases
Your rent can only be increased once every 12 months and you must be told at least three months in advance. If you think the increase is unfair, you can refer it to a rent officer for review.
Increased length of notice to leave
If you've lived in a property for more than six months, landlords have to give 84 days' notice to leave unless you have broken one of the agreed rules.
Simplified ‘notice to leave’ document
The ‘notice to quit process’ will be replaced by a single ‘notice to leave’ document giving one or more of the 18 reasons to leave.
A new model tenancy agreement
Your landlord must give you a written or electronic agreement confirming the terms of your tenancy before or on the date that you move into a property. To help both landlords and tenants, the Scottish Government has produced a standard form called the ‘Model Private Residential Tenancy Agreement’.
Exemption for student halls
If you’re a student living in a halls of residence or if you live with your landlord, the new PRT laws don’t apply to you.
What to do if there is a problem
If you find yourself in disagreement with your landlord over issues that you can’t resolve, you can refer your issue to First-tier Tribunal for a final decision.
