Landlord Harassment: Your Rights as a Renter in Scotland

Living in a rented home in Scotland should feel safe and secure. If you're experiencing unwanted visits, threats, or unreasonable pressure from your landlord, it may be considered harassment. Understanding your rights as a renter in Scotland is the first step to protecting your home and wellbeing.

What Is Landlord Harassment in Scotland?

Harassment by a landlord involves actions intended to make you leave your home or hinder your enjoyment of it. This is strictly prohibited under Scottish law. Examples can be obvious – or more subtle.

• Frequent unannounced or late-night visits
• Threatening to change the locks or physically remove you
• Refusing basic repairs to force you out
• Cutting off utility supply (water, electricity, gas)
• Making persistent threats about eviction or legal action

These actions breach your rights under the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988 and the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016.¹

Your Rights as a Tenant

Scottish renters are protected by law, regardless of tenancy type. You have the right to:

• Live undisturbed in your home
• Reasonable notice before landlord entry (at least 24 hours for most issues)
• Not be forced out without the proper legal process

To view your detailed rights and responsibilities, visit the official Scottish Government tenant rights guide.

Recognising Unlawful Eviction

If your landlord tries to evict you without a valid notice, sheriff court order, or without using the correct official process, this is unlawful. Only a sheriff officer can enforce an eviction, after the tribunal or court has approved it.

What Should You Do if You’re Being Harassed?

If you believe your landlord is harassing you, take these practical steps:

• Keep a written record of all incidents (dates, times, what happened)
• Save all letters, texts, or emails from your landlord
• Politely remind your landlord about your legal rights (you can send them the Scottish Government's tenant rights page)
• If the behaviour continues or you feel threatened, contact your local council’s housing department or Police Scotland (call 101 for non-emergencies)

How to Take Formal Action

If your landlord does not stop their behaviour, or if you want to seek compensation or challenge an eviction notice:

• Contact your local council's Environmental Health or Private Sector Housing teams
• You can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) for dispute resolution

Relevant Official Forms for Renters

• Eviction Order Application (Eviction - Private Residential Tenancy)
  • If you have received an eviction notice and believe it is invalid or a form of harassment, you can respond by submitting evidence to the tribunal. See the Apply to the Tribunal: Eviction and Civil Proceedings page for full guidance on responding to an application.
• Repair Application Form (Form AT6 – Assured Tenancy Notices and Form PRT – Private Residential Tenancy Notices)
  • Use the relevant form to report disrepair if harassment involves neglecting repairs. Download official forms on the Repairing Standard Applications page.

Remember, the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) is the official body that handles residential tenancy disputes.

What Legislation Protects Scottish Renters?

• Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
• Housing (Scotland) Act 1988

These acts make it a criminal offence for landlords to try to force you out without a legal process or to harass you in any way.

FAQ: Dealing with Landlord Harassment in Scotland

1. What counts as harassment from a landlord?
   Unwanted visits, threats, refusing basic repairs deliberately, or trying to force you to leave without a proper eviction process can all count as harassment.
2. Can my landlord enter my home without permission?
   No. In most cases, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice and get your consent, except in emergencies.
3. What should I do if I feel unsafe due to my landlord’s behaviour?
   If you feel threatened or unsafe, contact Police Scotland immediately (call 101 for non-emergencies or 999 in emergencies), and get help from your council's housing department.
4. Where do I report landlord harassment?
   You can report to your local council’s housing or environmental health team and/or apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).
5. Can I claim compensation if I’m harassed by my landlord?
   Yes. If the tribunal rules in your favour, you may be awarded compensation – especially where your landlord has acted unlawfully.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlord harassment is illegal in Scotland – you have strong rights under current law
• Keep records of any inappropriate or threatening behaviour
• Seek help early by contacting your council or the official tribunal

Empowering yourself with knowledge and acting quickly gives you the best protection against harassment.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Official tribunal for private renter disputes
• Your Rights as a Private Tenant in Scotland – Scottish Government guide
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Renting a Home – Advice and support for tenants
• Police Scotland – Call 101 if you feel threatened
• Contact your local council housing or environmental health team (find details on your council’s official website)

1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016; Housing (Scotland) Act 1988