Renters’ Reform Bill Scotland: What Renters Need to Know

If you rent your home in Scotland, you may have heard about ongoing proposals to update renters’ rights through reforms sometimes called the ‘Renters’ Reform Bill’. Scotland has already led the way in the UK with the introduction of the Private Residential Tenancy (PRT) system. Recent and proposed legislation is designed to give tenants more stability, protection against unfair rent increases and evictions, and improved housing standards. This guide explains what these reforms mean for you as a Scottish renter, using up-to-date government resources and plain English.

Understanding the Current Law: Private Residential Tenancy (PRT)

Since December 2017, most private tenants in Scotland have a Private Residential Tenancy (PRT), introduced by the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016^[1]. The PRT system aims to provide security, flexibility, and simplicity for renters. Here’s what it means:

• No fixed end date – you can stay as long as you want, unless your landlord has legal grounds to evict.
• Protection from unfair evictions – landlords must give specific reasons (‘grounds’) and follow set notice periods.
• Standard procedures for rent increases and repairs.

Any changes or reforms discussed below build on these foundations, seeking to make renting fairer and more stable throughout Scotland.

Recent and Proposed Renters’ Reforms in Scotland

The Scottish Government has introduced a series of new measures and is consulting on further changes aimed at protecting private tenants. When people talk about the ‘Renters’ Reform Bill’ in Scotland, they are usually referring to proposals and recent laws such as:

• Emergency rent caps and eviction bans introduced in response to the cost of living crisis via the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022^[2].
• Ongoing plans for long-term reform, including improved rights around pets, personalisation of your home, rent control, and strengthening standards of accommodation.

Because some changes are already law and others are proposed, it’s important to check the Scottish Government renters' rights updates regularly.

Key Features of Current and Proposed Reforms

• Stronger eviction protections: Landlords must use official eviction grounds. Many evictions are paused during ongoing emergency protections.
• Rent increase limits: Currently, most rent increases for private tenants are capped. Long-term reform may introduce local rent controls or more transparent appeal systems.
• Enhanced rights to keep pets and make your rental feel like home (subject to reasonable conditions).
• Improved repair and maintenance standards: Landlords are legally required to keep your home to specific standards.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase or Eviction in Scotland

If you receive a notice about a rent increase or eviction, specific steps and forms are involved. The key tribunal for handling disputes is the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).

Key Forms for Renters

• Notice to Leave: If your landlord wants to evict you from a Private Residential Tenancy, they must use an official Notice to Leave form. For example, if a landlord wishes to sell the property, they must issue this notice, stating the legal grounds.
• Rent Increase Notice (Form RR1): For a rent increase, your landlord must give you the proper written notice, usually using Form RR1. If you feel the increase is unfair, you can apply to the tribunal for a review.
• Application to the First-tier Tribunal for Rent Determination: If you want to challenge a rent increase or unresolved repair, you can submit an application to the Housing and Property Chamber. This is often done online or by post.

Tip: If you’re not sure what form you need or how to submit it, see official Scottish private renter guidance for step-by-step advice.

If you receive a Notice to Leave and are unsure or worried, seek advice straight away from a free service like Shelter Scotland or your local council.

Responding to Notices and Taking Action

If you want to challenge a rent increase:

• Respond in writing to your landlord within 21 days of receiving the rent increase notice.
• If you still disagree, you have up to 21 days after the new rent would begin to apply to the Housing and Property Chamber.

The tribunal is free for tenants, and panel members will consider whether the proposed new rent is fair and reasonable based on local evidence.

FAQ: Scottish Renters’ Reform and Your Rights

1. What is the main aim of renters’ reform in Scotland?
   To provide fairer, more secure tenancies, limit unfair rent increases, and improve conditions for private renters across Scotland.
2. Can my landlord increase my rent any time?
   No. Under the current PRT rules, your landlord can only raise the rent once per year, must give three months’ notice, and must use the proper notice form (Form RR1).
3. What should I do if I get a Notice to Leave?
   Check that the notice states a valid ground for eviction and the correct notice period. If you disagree or need help, contact a free advice service or apply to the Housing and Property Chamber.
4. Are the new reforms already law or just proposed?
   Some emergency protections and rules (like rent caps and extended notice periods) are already in effect, while other reforms are still being considered by the Scottish Parliament.
5. Where can I get official forms and make an application?
   All official tenancy and dispute forms are available via the Housing and Property Chamber website and the MyGovScot tenant guidance.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Scotland

• Most private renters have solid protections under the Private Residential Tenancy system, with further reforms on the way.
• You have rights to fair notice, limited rent increases, and to challenge decisions via the official tribunal service at no cost.
• Use the correct official forms and seek advice if you’re unsure what to do about a notice or rent increase.

Staying informed and using your legal rights helps keep your tenancy secure and your home safe.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber): Handle rent, eviction, and repair disputes.
• MyGovScot renting guidance: Step-by-step advice for Scottish renters.
• Shelter Scotland: Free, confidential advice for tenants on rights, disputes, and applications.
• Citizens Advice Scotland: Help with tenancy queries, rent increases, and more.
• Scottish Government Tenants’ Rights Portal: Official updates, consultations, and legislative news.

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1. [1] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
2. [2] Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022

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