What To Do If Your Landlord Uses Threats or Intimidation in Scotland

Dealing with threats or intimidation from a landlord can be stressful and frightening. If you're renting in Scotland, you have legal rights and clear options for support. This article explains how to recognise intimidation, what steps you can take, and how official bodies can help you resolve these situations.

What Is Landlord Threats or Intimidation?

Threats or intimidation from a landlord refer to any actions or words that are intended to scare, harass, or unfairly pressure you. This could include:

• Threatening eviction without following legal procedures
• Threatening to change the locks or remove your belongings
• Using aggressive or abusive language in person, over the phone, or in writing
• Threatening to report you to authorities or harm your reputation without cause

Scottish law protects all tenants from harassment and unlawful eviction. Section 22 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988 makes it a criminal offence for a landlord to use violence, threats, or intimidation to make you leave your home¹.

Steps to Take If You Experience Threats or Intimidation

If you feel threatened or are being intimidated by your landlord, it’s important to stay safe and protect your rights. Here’s what you can do:

1. Record Everything

• Keep copies of all letters, emails, and text messages from your landlord.
• Write down details of any conversations, including dates, times, and what was said.
• If you feel physically threatened, note down the events and consider contacting Police Scotland (report a non-emergency incident here).

2. Know Your Rights

• Landlords must follow strict legal procedures to evict tenants, including serving a valid notice.
• It is illegal for a landlord to try to force you out with threats, intimidation, or harassment. This is called unlawful eviction (see Scottish Government advice).

3. Get Advice and Support

• Contact your local council's homelessness or private rented sector team for support — they can explain your options and help if you need protection.
• You can also reach out to advice organisations such as Citizens Advice Scotland.

4. Report Harassment or Unlawful Eviction

• If you feel at immediate risk, call 999 for the police.
• For non-urgent harassment, report the behaviour to Police Scotland or your local council's tenancy relations officer.
• You may also submit a complaint to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber), which handles most disputes between tenants and landlords.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Several official forms may be relevant if harassment or intimidation is linked to eviction or tenancy disputes. Here are some examples:

• Eviction Notice (Form AT6 or Section 11 notice)
  - When used: Landlords must serve you official notice before seeking eviction. If you receive such a notice in a threatening or unclear manner, seek advice immediately.
  - Form links:
  • Form AT6 Notice Seeking Possession (for assured/short assured tenancies)
  • Notice to Leave for Private Residential Tenancy
  - Example: If your landlord gives you a Notice to Leave alongside threats, keep the notice as evidence and don’t leave until you receive proper legal advice.
• Application to Tribunal (Form F or online application)
  - When used: To raise a dispute over harassment or challenge unlawful eviction, tenants can apply directly to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland.
  - How to use: Complete the application form (online or paper), providing details and supporting evidence.
  - Practical example: If you have experienced repeated threats asking you to leave, submit this form with written evidence such as texts or letters.

All forms and guidance are available from the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) website².

What Can the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland Do?

The Tribunal is the official body for resolving disputes between tenants and landlords in Scotland. It can:

• Order your landlord to stop harassment or intimidation
• Prevent or reverse an unlawful eviction
• Award you compensation if your landlord has broken the law

If you need to apply, all instructions and forms are available via the official Tribunal site.

FAQ: Renters' Questions About Landlord Threats in Scotland

1. What should I do if I feel threatened by my landlord?
   Stay safe, keep a record, and seek advice from your council or Citizens Advice. If you are in immediate danger, call the police.
2. Is it illegal for my landlord to force me to leave without notice?
   Yes. Your landlord must follow strict eviction procedures. Forcing you to leave without due process is illegal under Scottish law.
3. Can I apply to the Tribunal if my landlord is harassing me?
   Yes. The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland can deal with harassment and illegal eviction cases.
4. What evidence should I collect if I want to take action?
   Save all communication, make written notes of incidents, and keep copies of any notices or forms received.
5. Will I have to pay to apply to the Tribunal?
   No. There is no fee to apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Scotland cannot legally use threats, intimidation, or harassment against tenants.
• Keep detailed records and get advice from official sources before acting.
• The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland and your local council can help you protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Scottish Government: Illegal Eviction & Harassment Information
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) — dispute resolution and application forms
• Citizens Advice Scotland — free, impartial guidance
• Police Scotland: Non-Emergency Contact
• Your local council's private rented sector/homelessness team

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1. Section 22 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1988 – Unlawful eviction and harassment
2. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)

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