Letting agents and accommodation agencies

This section looks at finding accommodation through letting agents. It looks at what letting agents are, how they can be contacted, how the law controls what they can charge and what the law says about discrimination issues.

Letting agents, also known as accommodation agencies, are private companies that introduce prospective tenants to potential landlords. Such agencies can be used by both landlords and tenants and are a popular way of finding and letting property. They are usually advertised in local papers and the Yellow Pages, and most will also have websites.

Management agencies

Management agencies are responsible for the maintenance of a property throughout the period of the tenancy. 

Letting agency regulation

From the 31 January 2018, anyone who undertakes letting agency work in Scotland must deliver their services in a way that complies with the Letting Agent Code of Practice. 

Letting agency fees

There are legal restrictions on what tenants can be charged by letting agents and accommodation agencies. 

Discrimination by letting agents

Discrimination by letting agents on the grounds of disability, race, gender, sexual orientation or religion is unlawful. 

Letting agent Code of Practice

Anyone who undertakes letting agency work in Scotland must deliver their services in a way that complies with the Letting Agent Code of Practice. This section gives information of these requirements. 

Letting agent not complying with the Code

Where a letting agent fails to comply with the Code of Practice the tenant or landlord can take action to resolve this. Scottish Ministers may also raise action if they believe a letting agent is not complying with the Code.