Understanding the End of Right to Buy in Scotland

If you’re renting a council or housing association home in Scotland, you might wonder about the Right to Buy scheme. This well-known policy previously allowed some social housing tenants to purchase their homes at a discount. However, important changes in Scotland’s housing law mean that tenants can no longer use this scheme. Understanding these changes helps you know what options are currently available and what laws affect your renting situation.

Right to Buy Scheme: A Quick Background

The Right to Buy scheme was originally introduced across the UK to give eligible council and housing association tenants the opportunity to buy their social rented home at a discount price. However, the Scottish Government decided to end the scheme, and the final deadline has already passed.

Has the Right to Buy Ended in Scotland?

Yes, the Right to Buy scheme ended for all social housing tenants in Scotland as of 1 August 2016. This decision was made to help keep more affordable homes available for future generations and to support people in need of social housing.^[1]

Why Was Right to Buy Abolished?

The main reasons given by the Scottish Government for ending the scheme were:

• To safeguard existing social rented homes for people who need them
• To prevent the loss of affordable housing stock
• To make social housing more accessible in the future

Because of these changes, new and existing tenants can no longer apply to buy their council or housing association homes under Right to Buy.

Your Options as a Social Housing Tenant in Scotland

While you can’t use the Right to Buy scheme any longer, there are still policies and protections that support social housing tenants:

• You have security of tenure under Scotland’s current tenancy legislation (the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 and Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016).
• You can apply to join the register for affordable or social housing if you need rehousing.
• Information about alternative schemes, such as shared equity or New Supply Shared Equity, can be found on the Scottish Government's home ownership support page.

If your landlord proposes changes to your tenancy, like rent increases or ending your tenancy, these are handled by the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber). This is the official tribunal that manages most disputes between landlords and tenants.

Official Forms and Action Steps

Because the Right to Buy scheme has closed, there are currently no active application forms for Right to Buy in Scotland. If you have questions about your tenancy or want to make changes (such as applying for a transfer or succession), you may use these relevant forms and processes:

• Application for Succession (Housing Association/Council Tenancy)
  When to use: If you wish to inherit a tenancy after a tenant’s death, usually found via your landlord’s website or council housing pages.
  Action: Contact your landlord or council directly to request the form and submission details. For more information, see the succession in council housing guidance.
• Complaint or Appeal Forms
  When to use: If you disagree with a landlord’s decision about your tenancy or housing application.
  Action: Follow the official complaints procedure on your social landlord’s or council’s website, or appeal to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland if you believe your tenancy rights have been breached.

If you’re unsure about your rights or what forms apply to your situation, ask your council housing officer or visit official resources for up-to-date advice.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

The main laws applying to social housing include:

• Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 (secure tenancies, tenant rights)
• Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 (private rented sector)
• Housing (Scotland) Act 2014 (includes section abolishing Right to Buy)

Tenancy agreements must follow these up-to-date laws, helping you as a renter understand your protections and obligations.

FAQs About Social Housing and Right to Buy in Scotland

1. Can I still buy my council or housing association home in Scotland?
   No, the Right to Buy scheme officially ended for all Scottish tenants on 1 August 2016. There are currently no government schemes letting you buy a social rented home in Scotland at a discount.
2. Are there any other ways to become a homeowner if I am a social tenant?
   You can explore alternative government support like the New Supply Shared Equity Scheme, which helps eligible first-time buyers and priority groups purchase a home with support.
3. What happens if my council or housing association landlord wants to change my tenancy?
   Significant tenancy changes, including ending a tenancy, must comply with the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001. If you disagree, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) for a decision.
4. Can a new law bring back Right to Buy in the future?
   It would require an act of the Scottish Parliament to reinstate the Right to Buy scheme. For now, there are no plans or proposals to do so.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Scotland

• The Right to Buy scheme is no longer available in Scotland for any social housing tenants.
• Current tenants are protected by Scottish laws, including secure tenancies and the role of the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland in disputes.
• Other home ownership schemes are available to some renters—make sure to check if you’re eligible.

Knowing your current rights can help you plan for your housing future and respond confidently to landlord decisions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• mygov.scot Social Housing Page – official guide for renters
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – for tenancy disputes & appeals
• mygov.scot Housing and Local Services – affordable housing schemes, repairs, and support
• Your local council housing office – for forms, applications, and tenancy advice

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1. Scottish Government – Right to Buy ends
2. Housing (Scotland) Act 2014 (legislation abolishing Right to Buy)
3. Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 (current rules for secure tenancies)
4. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland – Housing and Property Chamber

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