Landlord repair responsibilities in Scotland

Tenants and renters in Scotland have clear rights when it comes to repairs and the condition of their homes. This guide explains what landlords must fix, how to report problems, what evidence to keep and when to use official forms or apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber). It uses plain language so you can take practical steps if heating, plumbing, electrical safety or structural issues affect your home. Where possible the article points to official Scottish guidance and the legislation that sets minimum standards, and it shows realistic examples of how a tenant might ask for a repair and when to escalate a case.

What landlords must repair in Scotland

Under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 landlords must ensure rented homes meet the repairing standard, covering structure, roofs, windows, water, heating and safety of electrical and gas systems. ^[1] If a repair affects your health or safety and your landlord does not act, you may be able to apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for an enforcement order. ^[2]

How to report a repair to your landlord

Start by making a clear, dated written request and give the landlord a reasonable time to act. Keep copies of every message and any replies. Below are practical steps to follow.

• Ask for a repair in writing, describe the problem and request a reasonable timescale.
• Agree access times and allow inspections within a reasonable period so the landlord can assess and fix the issue.
• Keep records: photos, dates, names, messages and receipts as evidence you can use later.
• Call your landlord or managing agent for urgent faults (no heating, water leaks) and follow up in writing.

If your landlord does not fix the problem

If the landlord fails to carry out a repair after a reasonable request, escalate step by step: send a formal written notice, give a clear deadline, and warn you'll apply to the tribunal if necessary. Keep every communication and prepare a concise file of evidence. You can apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for an enforcement order if the repair relates to the repairing standard. ^[2]

• Send a formal written repair notice stating the defect, what you want fixed and a deadline for the work.
• Apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for an enforcement order if the landlord still does not act; the tribunal considers evidence and can require repairs.
• Contact your local authority environmental health when a hazard risks health or safety, such as severe damp, mold or structural danger.

Useful official documents and where to find them:

• Private Residential Tenancy guidance and notice information on the Scottish Government website explain tenancy rules and practical examples for tenants. ^[3]
• First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) provides application information and PDF forms to request enforcement or other remedies. ^[2]

FAQ

Who is legally responsible for repairs in a Scottish private tenancy?

Landlords are responsible for ensuring the property meets the repairing standard; tenants must report faults and allow reasonable access for repairs.

How long should I wait for a landlord to fix an issue?

Reasonable time depends on urgency: emergency repairs (no heat, no water) need immediate action, less serious faults should be fixed within an agreed reasonable period after written notice.

What can I do if the landlord refuses to act?

Keep evidence, send a formal written notice, and if necessary apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) to enforce the repairing standard.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: take clear photos, log dates and keep copies of messages and receipts.
2. Tell your landlord in writing with a clear description of the problem and a reasonable deadline, and keep a copy.
3. Allow reasonable access for inspection and repairs, and agree times in writing where possible.
4. Apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) with your evidence if the landlord still refuses to carry out repairs. ^[2]

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must meet the repairing standard and act on reported faults.
• Keep dated evidence and written records of all repair requests and responses.
• Use the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) when informal steps fail.

Help and Support / Resources

• Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 guidance
• First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber)
• Scottish Government: Private Residential Tenancy guidance

1. [1] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) - housingandpropertychamber.scot
3. [3] Private Residential Tenancy guidance - gov.scot