If you rent a private home in Scotland and have repair problems, you have rights under the repairing standard. This guide explains, in plain language, what the repairing standard requires, how to report faults to your landlord, what evidence to keep, and when you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) for an enforcement order. It covers common repairs such as heating, water, structural safety and pest control, and gives step-by-step actions you can take if repairs are delayed. You do not need legal training to follow these steps; keep records, use official forms, and ask the tribunal for help if the landlord does not act.
What the repairing standard requires
The repairing standard in Scotland requires landlords to ensure that a rented property is wind and watertight and reasonably fit for human habitation, including effective provision for heating and hot water, proper drainage and sanitation, and reasonable safety from hazards. These duties come from the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016[1] and related guidance from Scottish authorities. If a fault affects health, safety or basic services you should report it straight away.
How to report a repair
Start by telling your landlord or letting agent clearly and in writing what is wrong, where the problem is, and when it started. Include photos and dates and say what outcome you want (for example, a fixed boiler or repaired leak). If you have a copy of your tenancy agreement, check whether it sets specific timescales for repairs.
- Report the issue in writing (email or letter) and keep a copy as evidence.
- Take dated photos, videos and notes of the fault and any damage.
- Give the landlord a reasonable time to act and ask for a completion date if possible.
When to use official forms and the tribunal
If the landlord does not arrange repairs within a reasonable time, tenants can use the application process to ask the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) to consider a repairing standard enforcement order[2]. The tribunal can inspect the property and require the landlord to carry out work within a timescale it sets, and it can also make other orders to put things right.
Official form you may need
Application under the Repairing Standard (tenant application) — available from the Housing and Property Chamber. Use this form when you want the tribunal to consider a repair you asked your landlord to complete but which remains outstanding. Practical example: if your boiler has been cold for several weeks despite written requests, complete the tribunal application, attach photos, copies of your written requests and your tenancy agreement, and submit as directed.[3]
Practical steps before applying
- Write to the landlord setting out the problem and a reasonable deadline for repair.
- Collect evidence: photos, messages, receipts for any emergency measures you paid for.
- If no satisfactory response, prepare and send the tribunal application with your evidence.
FAQ
- Who enforces the repairing standard in Scotland?
- The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) enforces the repairing standard and can issue enforcement orders requiring landlords to carry out repairs.
- Do I need a solicitor to apply to the tribunal?
- No. Tenants can apply themselves using the tribunal application form, although you may choose to get advice or representation for complex cases.
- What happens after I submit an application?
- The tribunal may ask for more information, inspect the property, and can issue an enforcement order setting a deadline for repairs; it can also make other orders to resolve the issue.
How-To
- Confirm you have reported the issue to the landlord in writing and saved copies of your requests.
- Gather evidence: dated photos, messages, tenancy agreement and any repair receipts.
- Complete the tribunal application for a repairing standard enforcement order and attach your evidence.
- Submit the application to the Housing and Property Chamber as directed on their website and await directions from the tribunal.
Key Takeaways
- Report repairs in writing and keep evidence to support your case.
- The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland can issue enforcement orders if the landlord does not act.
- Using the official application form and clear documentation improves your chances of a timely remedy.
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
- Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
- Scottish Government housing and renting guidance
