Can Landlords Be Fined for Harassment in Scotland?

Many renters across Scotland worry about their landlords overstepping boundaries. Harassment by a landlord is both unlawful and distressing—but what exactly counts as harassment, and can landlords face fines for it? This article explains your rights as a renter in Scotland, what legal protections apply, the process to report landlord harassment, and how penalties are enforced under current housing law.

What Qualifies as Landlord Harassment?

In Scotland, your landlord must not act in a way intended to make you leave your home or stop exercising your rights as a tenant. Harassment takes many forms, such as:

• Entering your home without proper notice
• Threatening behaviour, persistent unwanted visits, or phone calls
• Withholding vital repairs or services (like heating or water)
• Attempting illegal eviction

Harassment is illegal for all private and social landlords in Scotland. The law protects tenants even if you do not have a written tenancy agreement.

Relevant Legislation and Tenant Protection

Harassment and illegal eviction are prohibited under the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988, Section 22 and related provisions in the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016.¹ The law makes it an offence for a landlord (or anyone acting for them) to deliberately interfere with your peace, comfort, or security as a tenant.

What Penalties Can Landlords Face?

If a landlord in Scotland is found guilty of harassment, the penalties can include:

• Substantial fines (currently up to £10,000)
• A criminal conviction
• Compensation payable to you, the renter

In serious cases, landlords may also lose their registration or letting license, preventing them from legally renting properties in Scotland.²

How to Take Action if You're Harassed

It’s important to act promptly and keep records if you believe you are being harassed by your landlord. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Keep a diary of incidents (dates, what happened, who was involved)
• Gather copies of any texts, emails, or letters
• Report to your local council's Landlord Registration team
• If you feel threatened, contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency

If the issue is not resolved, you may use Scotland’s specialist housing tribunal.

Making a Formal Complaint: Forms and the Tribunal Process

In Scotland, the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) handles disputes and remedies for tenants, including harassment.

• Form: Application under Rule 111 ("Application for a civil proceeding in relation to a private residential tenancy"): Use this form if you wish to claim for an unlawful act by your landlord related to harassment. Download the official application form here.
• How It's Used: For example, if your landlord threatens you with illegal eviction and repeatedly turns up without notice, you can submit this form with your evidence to the Tribunal for investigation and decision.
• Landlord Registration Complaint: Use your council’s landlord registration service to report unregistered or offending landlords.

What Happens After a Complaint?

The Tribunal will look at your case, ask both sides for evidence, and may call a hearing. If the landlord is found to have harassed you, they may be ordered to pay a fine or compensation—and, in extreme cases, face prosecution. The tribunal’s decisions are legally binding.

FAQ: Scottish Landlord Harassment, Fines, and Action

1. What counts as landlord harassment in Scotland?
   Any deliberate act by your landlord intended to force you out or interfere with your rights—like cutting off gas, changing locks without notice, or threats—may be seen as harassment under Scottish law.
2. How much can a landlord be fined for harassment?
   Courts and tribunals in Scotland can impose fines of up to £10,000 for harassment or illegal eviction.
3. Can I report my landlord anonymously?
   You can make an anonymous complaint to your local council, but providing your details usually helps authorities to fully investigate your case.
4. Will my landlord lose their licence for harassment?
   Yes—if found guilty, a landlord may lose their registration or letting licence, which can ban them from legally renting out properties.
5. Should I contact the police?
   If you ever feel unsafe or are threatened, contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency. For non-emergency complaints, the local council or tribunal are also there to help.

Summary: Protecting Your Rights and What to Remember

• Scottish law protects you from harassment—landlords can be fined and prosecuted.
• Keep written records and evidence if you feel harassed.
• The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) is the main official route for legal remedies and compensation.

Stay informed and seek support early—official channels are available to help you assert your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Scotland

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – for tenancy disputes and applications
• Scottish Landlord Registration – to check or report a landlord’s registration
• Citizens Advice Scotland: Harassment & Illegal Eviction
• Police Scotland – for emergencies
• Scottish Government: Private Renting

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1. Housing (Scotland) Act 1988, Section 22: Prohibition of harassment
2. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016, Section 19: Offences by landlord

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