Tenants with children need clear, practical information about safety in rented homes. If you rent in Scotland, you should expect working smoke and heat alarms, safe windows and balconies, secure stair gates where needed, and timely repairs from your landlord. This guide explains common childproofing steps renters can take themselves, what landlords must provide under Scottish tenancy rules, and how to raise concerns using official forms and the First-tier Tribunal. It uses plain language and offers examples a tenant can follow when reporting hazards, documenting problems, or asking for repairs. If you are unsure about responsibility or timescales, the steps here will help you prepare and act calmly to protect children while asserting your rights.
What landlords must provide and when
Under Scottish tenancy law landlords must meet the standards set out in the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and related housing rules. A landlord is generally responsible for providing and maintaining basic safety features such as smoke and heat alarms, safe electrical systems, and a property free from significant hazards. If a child safety risk arises because of disrepair or missing alarms, report it to your landlord in writing and ask for a timescale for completion. [1]
Practical childproofing checklist for tenants
- Install and test smoke and heat alarms within 7 days of moving in and after any power outage.
- Report repairs to heating, plumbing and mould promptly so hazards can be fixed.
- Secure tall furniture and TVs to walls for safety to prevent tipping onto children.
- Fit window restrictors and balcony guards for safety to reduce fall risk.
- Keep records: take dated photos and keep a log as evidence of hazards and communications.
- Request childproofing measures in writing using a clear form or email so there is a record.
How to report hazards and use official forms
Start by telling your landlord in writing what the hazard is, why it is dangerous for children, and when you need it fixed. If the landlord does not act, you can use the application forms and guidance on the Housing and Property Chamber website to apply for enforcement or repairs. [2] Official forms and the tribunal process are the formal route when informal reporting does not resolve the problem.
Common situations and a tenant example
Example: a tenant notices the lounge smoke alarm does not sound. The tenant emails the landlord describing the fault, attaches a short video and asks for replacement within 48 hours. If the landlord does not replace or arrange a repair, the tenant can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for an order requiring the landlord to fix the alarm. [3]
FAQ
- Who is responsible for installing smoke and heat alarms?
- The landlord is typically responsible for supplying and maintaining required alarms; tenants should test them and report faults promptly.
- Can I fit a stair gate or window restrictor myself?
- You can fit simple childproofing devices with the landlord's permission; if the device requires structural work ask the landlord to arrange and pay for it if it is needed for safety.
- What if my landlord ignores a serious child safety hazard?
- If the landlord does not act, keep records and apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) or contact the official bodies listed below for next steps.
How-To
- Contact the landlord in writing describing the hazard, include photos or video and state a reasonable timescale for repair.
- Keep a dated log of calls, emails and any responses as evidence.
- If there is no adequate response, prepare an application to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) using the official form.
- Submit the tribunal application with your evidence and follow the tribunal guidance on what to expect at a hearing.
- Attend any hearing or send a written statement; the tribunal can order repairs or other remedies if it finds a breach.
Key Takeaways
- Document hazards and communications to speed up remedies and support any formal application.
- Test alarms regularly and report faults in writing so responsibilities are clear.
- The First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) can enforce repairs if the landlord fails to act.
Help and Support / Resources
- Scottish Government: Private renting guidance
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
- Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
