Changes to Private Landlord Registration Regulations
Changes to the registration process affecting Private Sector Landlords took place on 16th September 2019. The Scottish Government have introduced a more comprehensive, rigorous application process in order to raise general awareness amongst landlords of their legal requirements. The changes should not have a significant impact on landlords who are already meeting the existing standards, but it is important to ensure all landlords are aware of the changes in legislation.
Landlords are required to declare whether or not they comply with specific duties such as:
- The tolerable and repairing standards
- Fire and carbon monoxide safety
- Gas and electrical safety
- Private water supplies and legionella risk assessment
- Energy performance certificates
- Insurance and common repairs on tenement property
The changes were made to help improve practice in the private rented sector to ensure landlords provide well managed, good quality and safe homes for their tenants. The Scottish Government is working with local authorities to develop a good practice approach by scrutinising and validating the information landlords provide. For example, landlords may be asked to provide evidence of compliance, i.e. copies of current safety certificates.
If you are unsure if you meet your landlord responsibilities, you should seek further information. Many local authorities have developed checklists for private landlords, so you may wish to check your council’s website.
Further details can be found at https://www.mygov.scot/renting-your-property-out/registration/