Can Rent Increase After Property Upgrades in Scotland?

If you rent in Scotland and your landlord has improved your home—maybe new appliances, double glazing, or major refurbishments—you might wonder if your rent can go up because of these upgrades. Understanding when and how rent can be increased following property improvements is important for protecting your rights as a tenant. This article explains the rules, the process, and what steps you can take if you believe a rent increase is unfair.

When Can a Landlord Increase Rent After Upgrades?

In Scotland, most private tenants have a private residential tenancy. Under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016, landlords can review and increase rent, but only under specific rules regardless of upgrades completed on the property.^[1] Rent cannot be increased simply at any time because of property improvements. Here’s what you need to know:

• Once Per Year Rule: Landlords can only increase rent once every 12 months, upgrades or not.
• Formal Notice Required: Landlords must use the correct official notice for rent increases and provide at least 3 months' notice.
• Improvements: Upgrades can be considered as part of a justification for a new rent level, but a landlord still must follow legal procedure.

Official Notice: Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (PRT)

Landlords must serve a Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (PRT) form to start the process. This is the only valid way to propose a rent change for a private residential tenancy:

• Name: Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (PRT)
• When to Use: If your landlord wants to raise rent due to property upgrades, they must provide you with this form at least 3 months before the change takes effect.
• Where to Find: Download the official notice from gov.scot

For example, if your landlord installs a new heating system and wishes to increase the rent, they must formally notify you using this form, specifying the new amount and the effective date.

Can I Challenge a Rent Increase After Upgrades?

Yes. If you believe a rent increase—whether due to property upgrades or other reasons—is unfair, you may challenge it. Scotland’s First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber is the official body that reviews rent disputes for private residential tenancies.^[2]

• Deadline to Challenge: You must apply to the tribunal within 21 days of receiving the Rent Increase Notice.
• Review Process: The tribunal will determine whether the proposed rent is an accurate reflection of open market rent for similar properties in the area, considering any upgrades.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase

1. Receive the official Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (PRT) from your landlord.
2. If you think the increase is unjustified, complete the Application to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber to challenge the rent. You can access the "Application by Tenant - Rent Increase" form on the Housing and Property Chamber website.
3. Submit your application within 21 days, including supporting evidence (e.g., comparable rental ads, photos).

What Happens at the Tribunal?

The Housing and Property Chamber will examine similar rental properties and the landlord’s improvements, then decide if the new rent is fair and set the amount you should pay. This decision is binding on both parties.

Key Legislation Covering Rent Increases

• Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 – Main law on rent increases and private residential tenancies.
• Statutory terms and forms are explained in gov.scot guidance.

This means that even if your landlord adds value to your home, they are still required to follow structured, regulated procedures when raising your rent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord increase my rent immediately after making upgrades?
   No. Your landlord must wait at least 12 months since the last increase and must provide a minimum of 3 months’ official notice using the Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (PRT).
2. What if I don’t agree the rent increase is fair?
   You can challenge the rent increase by applying to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber within 21 days of receiving the notice.
3. Does the tribunal always side with the landlord if upgrades have been made?
   No. The tribunal considers comparable rent in the local market and will only approve increases it finds fair, even in light of upgrades.
4. Where can I get the official rent increase forms?
   The Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (PRT) form is available on the Scottish Government website.
5. Who oversees rent disputes in Scotland?
   The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber handles complaints and reviews challenges about rent increases.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Rent can only be increased once per year, and landlords must use the correct notice form.
• You have the right to challenge a rent increase within 21 days if you feel it’s unfair—even after property upgrades.
• All disputes are resolved through the Housing and Property Chamber, based on statutory legislation and open market rents.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Scottish Government: Renting and Your Rights
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber (for disputes and forms)
• Citizens Advice Scotland: Renting a Home

---

1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 – Section 24
2. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation