Highland Deposit Guarantee Scheme

How the scheme works for landlords

We help tenants who cannot afford a deposit to access private rented housing.

As a landlord, you decide whether to accept a tenant using the scheme. If you do, we provide support throughout the tenancy and help make sure everything is in place.


End of tenancy process

At the end of the tenancy:

  • you, the tenant and our staff inspect the property together
  • the inspection is based on the inventory agreed at the start
  • if there is damage covered by the guarantee, we pay the eligible amount directly to you

What you need to do

To take part in the scheme, you must:

  • be registered with the Landlord Registration Scheme
  • provide a written tenancy agreement and inventory
  • keep a record of rent paid
  • meet legal tenancy requirements
  • keep the property in good repair
  • meet safety standards for gas, electricity, energy performance and furniture
  • provide a gas safety certificate (if applicable)
  • display an Energy Performance Certificate

Benefits of joining the scheme

You will get:

  • help to find a suitable tenant
  • assurance that rent is affordable for the tenant
  • support for tenants to access benefits and money advice
  • access to mediation if problems arise
  • a template Scottish Short Assured Tenancy agreement
  • advice on tenancy management

Page last modified: 23 October 2025