Final Inspection Checklist for Tenants in Scotland

Moving out of a rented home in Scotland can be a stressful time, especially when it comes to the final inspection. This check-out step is crucial for protecting your deposit, resolving disputes, and ensuring a smooth transition. Whether you're renting privately or through a letting agent, understanding your rights, responsibilities, and official processes will put you in the best position for a fair and hassle-free move.

What Is a Final Inspection and Why Does It Matter?

The final inspection—sometimes called a ‘check-out inspection’—is when the landlord or letting agent reviews the property at the end of your tenancy. The main purpose is to compare the property's current condition with what is listed on your original inventory or move-in report. This impacts your deposit return and could affect any charges for cleaning or damage.

• Ensures you are only held responsible for genuine damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Helps avoid disputes about the property's state
• Forms the basis for any potential deductions from your tenancy deposit

Essential Steps to Prepare for Your Final Inspection

Here’s a clear checklist for tenants in Scotland. Be thorough and document everything:

• Review your tenancy agreement and inventory. The tenancy agreement and check-in inventory will state the required condition—these set expectations for cleaning, repairs, and garden upkeep.
• Address repairs and cleaning early. Make good on any small fixes, such as filling nail holes or touching up paint (if permitted). Arrange professional cleaning if required.
• Remove all your belongings. Leaving personal items behind can delay the process and may result in removal charges.
• Take time-stamped photographs or video. Document each room to demonstrate the condition you left it in, which can help if disputes occur later.
• Return all keys. Don’t forget window keys, shed keys, or any fobs provided at move-in.

Understanding Deposit Deductions and Dispute Resolution

In Scotland, all private tenancy deposits must be held in an approved tenancy deposit scheme. At the end of your tenancy, your landlord can apply to have part or all of your deposit returned to them for genuine costs—such as cleaning, rent arrears, or repair of any damage that goes beyond fair wear and tear.

• Ask for written evidence if deductions are proposed (invoices, photos, inventory).
• If you disagree with a deduction, you have the right to raise a dispute through your tenancy deposit scheme.
• Common schemes in Scotland include The Deposit Protection Service Scotland, Letting Protection Service Scotland, and SafeDeposits Scotland.

Relevant Official Forms and When to Use Them

• Inventory/Check-In Report (no official form number): This is usually provided at move-in. Review it at the end of your tenancy to compare property condition. If you cannot find your copy, ask the landlord or agent, or refer to your tenancy documents.
• Deposit Dispute Form (varies by scheme): If you disagree about deposit deductions, each tenancy deposit scheme provides their own online or paper dispute forms. For example, with SafeDeposits Scotland, you can submit a deposit dispute form online at the end of the tenancy.
• Notice to Leave (if required, Form AT6 for older tenancies): For private residential tenancies, giving the correct notice usually does not require a specific form, but your landlord must provide the appropriate notice if seeking possession. For older assured tenancies, the Form AT6 is used by landlords, not tenants, when ending a tenancy under the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988.

Always check your tenancy type and consult your deposit scheme for the exact process if unsure.

Your Rights at Final Inspection Under Scottish Law

Rental rights for moving out—including inspections, deposits, and repairs—are governed by the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 (for private residential tenancies) and the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988 (for older tenancy types). Scotland’s First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) handles disputes between tenants and landlords.

• You have the right to attend the inspection with your landlord/agent.
• Requests for last-minute viewings or access must be made with appropriate notice under the law.
• If your landlord makes unfair claims, you can challenge this with the deposit scheme or through the tribunal (where applicable).

What If There’s a Dispute After the Final Inspection?

If you and your landlord can’t agree about the property’s condition or deposit return, the issue is first handled by your tenancy deposit scheme’s alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process. This is a free and impartial service for both parties. If broader tenancy matters arise—such as a breach of obligations or property standards—these can be brought before the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber.

• Submit your dispute evidence (photos, correspondence, cleaning invoices, etc.) promptly
• Follow deadlines set by the scheme or tribunal
• You can get independent advice from Citizens Advice Scotland

1. What is considered fair wear and tear at final inspection?
   

   Fair wear and tear covers the gradual damage or deterioration that happens through normal use, such as faded carpets or minor paint scuffs. You are not responsible for these kinds of changes, but are liable for any neglect, deliberate damage, or issues beyond normal aging of the property.

2. Can I challenge deposit deductions made after the inspection?
   

   Yes. If you disagree with any deductions, you can launch a dispute through your approved tenancy deposit scheme. You will need evidence (photos, inventory) to support your case. The scheme’s decision is impartial and based on submitted facts.

3. Should I be present for the final inspection?
   

   It’s good practice to attend the final inspection with your landlord or agent, so you can discuss any issues together and ensure an accurate record is made. It gives you an opportunity to spot or clarify any concerns on the spot.

4. What official forms do I need for moving out?
   

   While there isn’t a single move-out form for all situations, you should reference your inventory/check-in report. If you wish to dispute deposit deductions, use your tenancy deposit scheme’s dispute form (e.g., the SafeDeposits Scotland Dispute Form).

5. Where can I get help if disputes escalate beyond the deposit scheme?
   

   If a dispute cannot be resolved through your tenancy deposit scheme, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Housing and Property Chamber which handles private tenancy disputes in Scotland.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Moving out guidance—mygov.scot
• Moving out—Citizens Advice Scotland
• Tenants' rights—Scottish Government
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – dispute resolution
• Contact your tenancy deposit scheme for detailed guidance:
  • SafeDeposits Scotland
  • Letting Protection Service Scotland
  • The DPS Scotland

---

1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
2. Housing (Scotland) Act 1988
3. SafeDeposits Scotland Dispute Guidance
4. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
5. Official Scottish Government Moving Out Guide

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