Notice Periods for Rent Increases in Scotland

If you rent a property in Scotland, it's essential to know how and when your landlord can increase your rent. Scottish tenancy law sets clear rules around notice periods, the forms landlords must use, and what renters can do if they feel a rent increase is unfair. This guide explains the key steps, rights, and relevant forms involved in rent increases for private tenants in Scotland.

How Rent Increases Work for Scottish Private Tenants

Most private renters in Scotland have either a Private Residential Tenancy (PRT) or an older Assured/Short Assured Tenancy. The rules around rent increases and notice periods depend on the type of tenancy you have.

Private Residential Tenancy (PRT)

• Landlords can normally increase the rent only once per year.
• They must give you at least three months’ written notice before the change takes effect.
• There is a specific notice form that must be used (see below).

A summary: With a PRT, your landlord can’t just raise the rent anytime—they must follow the notice rules set by law.

Required Notice Form: Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (Form RPZ1)

If your landlord wants to increase your rent under a Private Residential Tenancy, they must use an official form called Rent Increase Notice to Tenant(s) (Form RPZ1).

• When is it used? Every time a landlord proposes a new rent amount for a PRT.
• How is it delivered? Your landlord must give you this form in writing—either on paper or, if you’ve agreed, by email.
• Your new rent amount cannot start until at least three months after you receive the completed RPZ1 form.

Challenging a Rent Increase

If you believe your proposed rent increase is unfair or above rents for similar properties in your area, you can challenge it.

• You must object within 21 days of receiving the RPZ1 form.
• To object, apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).
• The tribunal can set an open market rent based on similar local properties.

The law protecting these rights is set out in the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016¹.

What About Assured or Short Assured Tenancies?

For pre-2017 tenancies (assured or short assured), landlords must use a notice called the Form AT2 – Notice proposing new rent. Tenants have the right to apply to the tribunal if they disagree with the new amount.

• Notice period: At least one month in most cases.
• Objection deadline: Apply to the tribunal before the new rent takes effect, usually within the notice period stated in the AT2 form.

Action Steps for Scottish Renters Facing a Rent Increase

• Check the type of tenancy you have and make sure the correct notice form was used.
• Count the notice period—three months for Private Residential Tenancy, one month for older types.
• If the notice is incorrect, tell your landlord in writing and keep a copy.
• If you want to challenge the increase, apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland within the allowed timeframe.

If you are unsure which tenancy you have or the rules that apply, check the documents you received when you moved in or seek advice from a renters’ support service.

FAQ: Rent Increase Notice Periods in Scotland

1. How much notice must my landlord give before increasing my rent?
   For most tenants with a Private Residential Tenancy, your landlord must provide at least three months’ notice in writing, using the correct RPZ1 form.
2. What should I do if I receive a rent increase notice?
   Read the notice carefully and check if the right form and notice period have been used. If you believe the increase is unreasonable, you have 21 days from receipt to challenge it through the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland.
3. Can rent be increased more than once a year?
   No, under a Private Residential Tenancy in Scotland, your landlord can normally increase your rent only once every 12 months.
4. Is my landlord required to use a specific form for rent increases?
   Yes, for Private Residential Tenancies, landlords must use the official RPZ1 form. For older tenancies, the AT2 form is required.
5. What happens if the landlord gives insufficient notice or uses the wrong form?
   If proper notice or the correct form isn’t used, the rent increase is not legally valid. Inform your landlord in writing if this happens and keep a record.

Conclusion: What Scottish Renters Should Remember

• Landlords must follow strict notice rules—three months and RPZ1 for PRTs, one month and AT2 for older tenancies.
• Tenants can challenge rent increases within specific timeframes via the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland.
• If procedure is not followed, the rent increase does not apply.

Review all forms for accuracy and act quickly if you want to object to a rent increase.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber): Handles rent increase challenges and tenancy disputes.
• Scottish Government – Rent Increases Guidance: Clear, official information for tenants and landlords.
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Rent Increases: Free advice on challenging or understanding rent increases.

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1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016, Part 4, Variation of Rent.
2. Scottish Government: Prescribed Notices and Terms for Private Residential Tenancy
3. Housing and Property Chamber: Challenge a Rent Increase
4. Form AT2: Notice Proposing New Rent (for Assured Tenancies)

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