Living in a rented home in Scotland means you have a right to safe gas and electrical systems. If you're a tenant or renter, this guide explains what landlords must do, what records and certificates you can ask for, and practical steps to report hazards or get repairs carried out. It uses plain language, covers key duties under Scottish tenancy law, and shows when you might apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber). Keep copies of any certificates, report problems in writing, and note dates so you can protect your safety and your rights. This page explains the Gas Safety Record (CP12) and Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), explains timescales for checks, and gives examples of how to raise a formal complaint. It points to official Scottish and UK sources so you can follow up.
What landlords must do in Scotland
Under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 landlords must ensure rented homes meet the Repairing Standard and keep installations safe.[1] Practically this means carrying out regular gas safety checks, ensuring electrical installations and appliances are safe, and acting promptly when a tenant reports a hazard.
- Arrange an annual gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer and keep the Gas Safety Record (CP12).
- Have electrical installations inspected and tested at appropriate intervals and obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
- Provide tenants with copies of safety certificates or written confirmation when checks are completed.
- Keep clear, dated records of inspections, repairs and safety documents.
- Carry out urgent repairs quickly where a gas leak, exposed wiring or other immediate hazard is reported.
If a landlord does not comply, tenants can raise the issue in writing and, if unresolved, apply to the housing tribunal for enforcement.
What tenants should do
Tenants have practical steps to protect themselves and to make it easier to resolve problems:
- Ask your landlord for copies of the Gas Safety Record (CP12) and any recent EICR when you move in or when requested.
- Report hazards in writing (email or letter), with dates and photos where safe to take them, and keep a copy.
- Allow reasonable access for inspections and safety checks if the landlord gives proper notice.
- Keep a dated record of communications, receipts for repairs and any certificates provided by the landlord.
Certificates and official documents (what to ask for)
Common documents you can request and what they mean:
- Gas Safety Record (CP12): an annual certificate provided after a gas appliance inspection. Example: ask for the CP12 if you smell gas or before you renew a tenancy to confirm checks were done.[2]
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): a formal inspection and test of fixed electrical wiring. Example: request an EICR if you see frequent tripping, burning smells, or moved-in appliances were not checked.
- Tribunal application forms: if a landlord does not fix hazards, tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) using its application route and guidance.[3]
Enforcement: how to escalate
Step by step: first tell the landlord in writing, allow a reasonable time to respond, and, if an emergency, contact emergency services for gas. If the landlord fails to act you can apply to the Tribunal for an order requiring repairs or for compensation. The Tribunal website explains the application process and any forms required.[3]
FAQ
- How often must a landlord carry out gas safety checks?
- Gas appliances should be checked at least annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer and tenants should receive the Gas Safety Record (CP12) after the check.[2]
- Can I refuse access for safety checks?
- You should not unreasonably refuse access for safety inspections; landlords must give reasonable notice and arrange a convenient time where possible.
- What if my landlord won’t provide certificates or fix hazards?
- Report the issue in writing, keep records, and if not resolved you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for enforcement or compensation.[3]
How-To
- Write to your landlord describing the issue, include dates and photos, and ask for the CP12 or EICR if you do not have them.
- If a gas smell or electrical fire risk exists, call emergency services immediately and notify your landlord.
- If there is no timely response, collect your records and consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) with supporting documents.
- Follow the Tribunal guidance to complete any application forms and attend hearings or provide evidence as requested.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords in Scotland must keep gas and electrical systems safe and provide records.
- Ask for the Gas Safety Record (CP12) and an EICR and keep copies.
- Report hazards in writing and use the First-tier Tribunal if a landlord will not act.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber)
- Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
- Gas safety responsibilities for landlords - GOV.UK
