Temporary Accommodation Standards and Complaints in Scotland

Temporary accommodation can be needed when a tenancy ends, during repairs, or after eviction. If you are a tenant in Scotland placed in temporary housing by a council, landlord or housing association, you have rights to reasonable standards of cleanliness, safety, privacy and facilities. This guide explains what to expect from temporary accommodation, how to check it meets statutory standards under Scottish law, and clear steps to raise a complaint if standards fall short. It uses plain language to describe official forms, timescales and tribunal routes so renters can act confidently. Wherever possible, keep records of correspondence, photos and receipts —these help support a complaint or appeal.

Standards for temporary accommodation in Scotland

Temporary accommodation must meet basic habitability and safety expectations set by Scottish housing law and guidance. The Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 sets the framework for private tenancies and the repairing standard; local authorities have duties where accommodation is provided under homelessness duties.^[1]

• Heating and hot water supplied and working.
• Working plumbing, kitchen facilities and basic repairs completed promptly.
• Secure locks, privacy and reasonable separation of sleeping spaces.
• Fire safety measures and general safety requirements met.
• Reasonable cleanliness and functioning waste disposal.

How to raise a complaint about temporary accommodation

Start by telling the landlord, housing association or the council in writing about the problem. Provide dates, describe the issue, and attach photos or other evidence. If you are placed in temporary accommodation by a council use their homelessness or temporary accommodation complaint route; see the Scottish Government homelessness guidance and your local authority pages.^[3] If the landlord or provider does not resolve the issue you can take the matter to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).^[2]

• Put the complaint in writing and request a clear timetable for repairs or actions.
• Keep evidence: photos, correspondence, receipts and logs of phone calls.
• Contact the council homelessness team if the council arranged the accommodation.

FAQ

Who enforces temporary accommodation standards?

The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) handles disputes about private rented housing and repairing standards, while local authorities enforce homelessness duties.^[2]

How quickly should I complain?

Complain as soon as possible and follow written procedures set by your landlord or council; keep records of dates and evidence for any later tribunal application.

What evidence will help my complaint?

Photos, dated correspondence, receipts for expenses, a log of phone calls and witness details are all useful when asking for repairs, compensation or tribunal action.

How-To

1. Check the accommodation against the repairing and safety standards.
2. Submit a written complaint or formal notice to the landlord or provider with clear requested outcomes.
3. Gather and store evidence: photos, receipts and copies of messages.
4. Contact the local authority homelessness team if the council placed you or if the issue relates to homelessness duties.
5. Apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) if the problem remains unresolved.

Key Takeaways

• Keep dated photos and written records of all contacts.
• Act promptly and follow the landlord or council complaints process.
• The First-tier Tribunal can decide on repairs, compensation and other remedies.

Help and Support / Resources

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
• Contact your local council homelessness service via GOV.SCOT guidance
• Scottish Housing Regulator - compliance and standards

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1. [1] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 - legislation.gov.uk
2. [2] First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) - housingandpropertychamber.scot
3. [3] Homelessness guidance - GOV.SCOT