Steps to Take If Your Landlord Ignores Repairs in Scotland

If you rent a home in Scotland and your landlord is ignoring essential repairs, you may feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. Knowing your legal rights under Scottish housing law—along with what actions you can take—can ensure your home remains safe and habitable. This guide explains what to do if you face this situation, which official forms to use, and where to get help.

Your Landlord’s Duty to Make Repairs

Landlords in Scotland have a legal obligation to keep your property in a good state of repair. This includes:

• Ensuring the structure and exterior are in good condition
• Providing working water, gas, electricity, heating, and sanitation
• Meeting the Repairing Standard required by law

Your rights as a tenant are protected by the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006.^{1 2}

What To Do When Repairs Are Ignored

Follow these steps if your landlord isn’t dealing with necessary repairs:

1. Notify Your Landlord in Writing

• Always contact your landlord about needed repairs in writing (letter or email).
• State the problem clearly, request repairs, and keep records of all communication.

2. Give Your Landlord Reasonable Time

• Allow your landlord an appropriate amount of time to arrange and complete the repairs—typically two weeks for minor repairs, but sooner if there’s a safety risk.
• Keep evidence of all delays or ignored requests.

3. Use the Official Repair Application Process

If your landlord continues to ignore the problem, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) Scotland for help.

• The Tribunal can order your landlord to carry out repairs and may reduce your rent until work is done.

Relevant Official Form: Repairing Standard Application

• Form Name: Repairing Standard Application Form
• When to Use: If your landlord fails to meet legal repair standards after you’ve notified them in writing and allowed a reasonable time for response.
• How to Use: Complete the Repairing Standard Application Form, attach supporting documents (correspondence, photos), and submit it to the Housing and Property Chamber.

Other Steps You Can Take

• Contact your local council’s Environmental Health department if the issue is a health hazard (such as damp, mould, or unsafe heating).
• Access free advice from organisations such as Shelter Scotland and Citizens Advice Scotland.
• Never withhold your rent—this may put your tenancy at risk. Use the formal process instead.

Most landlords respond once they realise legal action could be taken, but if you need to escalate, the First-tier Tribunal is your official recourse in Scotland.

Common Problems Covered by the Law

The Repairing Standard covers problems such as:

• Unsafe electricity or gas supply
• Broken heating or hot water
• Severe damp, water leaks, and infestations
• Structural problems affecting safety and comfort

This standard applies regardless of rent level or how long you’ve lived there.

FAQ: Repairs and Your Rights as a Tenant in Scotland

1. What is the Repairing Standard?
   The Repairing Standard is the legal minimum requirement for private rented homes in Scotland, covering safety, structure, and amenities. If your home falls short and your landlord won’t fix it, you can apply to the Housing and Property Chamber.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t respond to my repair request?
   First, send your request in writing. If you don’t get a response within a reasonable time, submit a Repairing Standard Application to the First-tier Tribunal using the official form.
3. Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren’t done?
   No—you must continue paying rent or risk eviction. Instead, use the Tribunal’s application process to resolve the issue.
4. Do I need a lawyer to make a Repairing Standard Application?
   No. You can complete and submit the application yourself, and tenant-focused organisations can help if needed.
5. Can the Tribunal reduce my rent if repairs are not done?
   Yes. The Housing and Property Chamber can reduce your rent until repairs are completed if they uphold your application.

Conclusion: Know Your Rights—Take Action if Repairs Are Ignored

If essential repairs are not done, remember:

• Your landlord has a legal responsibility to keep your home safe and in good repair
• Always notify your landlord in writing and keep evidence
• If ignored, use the official Repairing Standard Application to the Tribunal

Seeking action through official channels protects your tenancy while ensuring your landlord does their duty.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Scotland

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Submit applications and find official guidance
• Shelter Scotland – Free advice on housing and repairs
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Local, independent advice
• Scottish Government: Private Renting and Repairs – Official policy and legal standards

1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 (legislation.gov.uk)
2. Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 (Repairing Standard) (legislation.gov.uk)