Tenants and renters in Scotland often need to bring carers or support workers into their home to meet daily needs. You have rights around who can enter, how landlords can set reasonable conditions, and what notices or permissions are needed. This guide explains practical steps for arranging access, documenting agreements, and responding if a landlord refuses or imposes unreasonable rules. It covers privacy, reasonable adjustments under discrimination rules, common notices, and how to raise disputes with the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber). Use the examples and forms included to prepare a clear request and to protect your tenancy when arranging essential support.
What carers and support workers can do
Carers and support workers can provide personal care, help with medication, or assist with mobility inside a rented home. In Scotland the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 sets the framework for private tenancies and tenants' rights[1]. Landlords may set reasonable conditions to protect the property, but cannot impose rules that would prevent essential care.
- Give written notice to your landlord with dates and times when care is needed.
- Include a short description of the support worker's role and any supporting letters from health professionals.
- Attach evidence such as referral letters, ID and medical notes to support your request.
- Propose reasonable visiting or overnight times and offer to work out any practical arrangements.
If a landlord refuses access
If a landlord refuses reasonable access, ask for the refusal in writing and explain why access is needed. Keep records of conversations, messages and any written refusals. If you cannot resolve the dispute, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) to consider the matter and decide on any order or remedy[2].
- Request written reasons for a refusal and a short timescale to respond.
- Keep copies of all messages, photos and documents that show why care is required.
- Note any deadlines in letters or emails and act within those times to preserve your rights.
Documenting and preparing evidence
Clear documentation makes informal resolution and tribunal outcomes more likely. Focus on factual details, dates and supporting professional evidence rather than opinions.
- Keep a dated log of visits, care provided and any missed appointments or problems.
- Save copies of written requests, agreements and any replies from the landlord.
- Record times and dates for any notices or official deadlines.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse access to my carer or support worker?
- A landlord cannot unreasonably refuse access for essential carers; try to agree terms in writing and apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) if necessary.
- Do carers need to be on the tenancy agreement?
- Carers who visit temporarily usually do not need to be named on the tenancy, but a regular or live-in carer may affect occupancy terms; agree any change with your landlord and record it in writing.
- What forms will I use to raise a dispute?
- You can use the Housing and Property Chamber application forms to start a tribunal case and follow Scottish Government guidance on tenancy issues and notices when preparing your request.
How-To
- Write to your landlord explaining the support needed, dates, times and attach any supporting letters or ID.
- Keep copies of all communications and build a simple evidence file with dated notes and photos where relevant.
- If the landlord refuses, request written reasons and set a short deadline to respond.
- If unresolved, complete the Housing and Property Chamber application forms and submit the tribunal application with your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Document every request and response to protect your position.
- Try to agree reasonable conditions in writing before a dispute starts.
- Act promptly on notices and tribunal deadlines to preserve your rights.
Help and Support / Resources
- Housing and Property Chamber application forms
- Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 — legislation.gov.uk
- Scottish Government housing guidance
