Essential Photo Tips for Scottish Tenants Moving In

Starting a new tenancy in Scotland is exciting, but it's important to protect your rights, especially when it comes to your deposit and property condition. Taking the right move-in photos can make all the difference. This guide explains why move-in photos are important for Scottish tenants, how to take effective photos, and where official tenancy rules and support are found.

Why Are Move-In Photos So Important for Tenants?

Move-in photos provide clear evidence of a property’s condition before you start living there. This helps avoid disputes about damages or deposit deductions when you move out. Scotland's housing rules give tenants important protections, but you need proof to use them effectively.

When Should I Take Move-In Photos?

You should take detailed photos on the day you move in, before starting to unpack. If that’s not possible, do it as soon as possible and let your landlord know if there are existing issues.

What Should I Photograph?

• Every room, including ceilings, floors, and all four walls
• Existing damage (chips, stains, damp, marks, cracked glass, etc.)
• Doors, locks, and windows (interior & exterior)
• Fixtures and fittings (light switches, sockets, radiators, fireplaces)
• Bathrooms and kitchens: note all appliances, taps, tiles, bath or shower, sinks, and cupboards
• Outdoor spaces, gardens, sheds, bins, and fences (if included in tenancy)
• Gas, electricity, and water meters with readings
• Furnishings (if applicable): beds, sofas, wardrobes

Best Tips for Taking Effective Move-In Photos

• Use a phone or digital camera with a date/time stamp enabled
• Photograph in natural light whenever possible
• Take wide shots for context and close-ups for details
• Record any issues or damage with a note (e.g., "scratch on kitchen worktop")
• Consider making a short video walkthrough for overall context
• Back up your photos (cloud, email, or external drive)
• Share copies with your landlord or letting agent and request confirmation of receipt

Good photographic records make it much easier to reclaim your deposit at the end of your tenancy and demonstrate that you left the property in good condition.

Checking the Inventory and Condition Report

Under Scottish law, your landlord should provide an inventory and condition report at the start of your tenancy. This document lists the contents and the condition of the property. Review it carefully and check it against your photos. If you spot differences or missed issues, reply in writing with your own comments and photo evidence.

Key Legal Protections for Tenants in Scotland

Most private tenants in Scotland have a Private Residential Tenancy or, if you moved in before December 2017, possibly a Short Assured Tenancy. Your main legal protections are found in the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016¹.

• Landlords must use one of three approved tenancy deposit schemes.
• Deposit deductions must be fair and based on actual loss or damage beyond reasonable wear and tear.
• You can challenge unfair deductions at an independent tribunal.

For deposit disputes, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) for a decision.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Tenancy Deposit Dispute Application (specific to your deposit scheme provider): If you disagree with a landlord’s proposed deposit deduction, use the dispute process via your tenancy deposit scheme (such as SafeDeposits Scotland or Letting Protection Service Scotland). Each scheme provides a form or online process to challenge deductions. You'll need your photographic evidence.
• Tenancy Terms Notification (Model Private Residential Tenancy Agreement): Landlords must provide tenants with written terms; while there is no numbered government form, a model tenancy agreement is provided by the Scottish Government. You can refer to this if any terms about repairs or inventory are in dispute.

How to Use Your Move-In Photos in a Dispute

• If you move out and your landlord proposes a deduction, submit your photos and inventory inspection records to the deposit resolution service.
• Provide written descriptions to explain what each photo shows.
• Your evidence will help the deposit scheme or tribunal decide fairly.

Effective records can save time, stress, and money later down the line.

FAQ: Move-In Photo Tips for Scottish Tenants

1. What’s the best time to take move-in photos?
   As soon as you receive the keys and before you move any belongings in. If that's not possible, do it as soon as you can and document the date.
2. Do I need to use specialist equipment?
   No, a smartphone camera is usually sufficient. Enable the date/time stamp and take clear, well-lit photos.
3. Should I share my photos with my landlord?
   Yes. Send a copy (by email if possible) and ask for written acknowledgment. This helps prove when the photos were taken should a dispute arise.
4. What if there's no inventory provided?
   Your photos and written notes will become your primary evidence. Always keep records even if your landlord does not provide an inventory.
5. Where do I go if there is a dispute over my deposit?
   You should use the dispute process offered by your chosen tenancy deposit scheme first. If further action is needed, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).

Key Takeaways for Scottish Renters

• Take thorough move-in photos (and videos) on day one
• Review and comment on the inventory – use your photos to support any amendments
• Keep copies safely and share them with your landlord at the start
• Know your legal protections and where to turn for deposit or tenancy disputes

Capturing the right evidence at move-in makes moving out much smoother and helps ensure you get your deposit back fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tenancy Deposit Schemes (MyGov.Scot) – Guidance and contact for deposit protections and disputes
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Apply for tenancy deposit and other housing disputes
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Renting a home – Free advice and support for tenants
• Scottish Government Tenant Guide – Comprehensive official guidance on tenant rights and procedures

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1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016

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