From 1 August 2026, important changes arising from the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 and the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 will come into force. These changes are reflected in the New Model Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement 2026 and strengthen the rights of social housing tenants across Scotland.
The following changes apply to all Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) tenants, including The Highland Council tenants whose Scottish Secure Tenancies began before 1 August 2026.
Supporting victim-survivors of domestic abuse
The new provisions support a victim-survivor centred approach to tenancy management. They provide a legal mechanism that allows social landlords to seek the removal of a perpetrator of domestic abuse from a tenancy while helping victim-survivors remain in, or return to, their home where appropriate.
This means:
- The perpetrator of domestic abuse can be removed from the tenancy.
- The victim-survivor can be granted the tenancy in their own name.
- The victim-survivor has greater choice and support to remain in their home.
Changes to succession rights
The changes to SST succession rules give people residing in the property with the tenant clearer rights following a tenant's death.
To qualify for succession, a person must:
- Have occupied the property as their only or principal home for at least six months (this was previously twelve months) immediately before the tenant's death; AND
- Have notified the landlord in writing that they moved into the property at the time of taking up residence - not at the time of making a claim for succession.
Electronic delivery of notices
Tenancy notices can now be issued by email or other electronic means where tenants have agreed to receive communications in this way.
Keeping pets
Tenants have a new right to request permission to keep a pet. Permission must be obtained in writing, and landlords cannot unreasonably withhold consent. This does not remove the tenant’s responsibility to ensure that pets are properly cared for and do not cause problems for neighbours or the property.
If you have any questions about these changes, or require advice or support, please contact your Housing Officer.