Private rent

You can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) if you think your landlord has failed to meet their duty. The tribunal can order your landlord to carry out repairs.

Getting repairs done

You should:

• tell your landlord about repairs as soon as possible
• keep a record of your request
• fix any damage you have caused
• allow access for repairs

If you need help, our housing options team or other support services can:

• speak to your landlord for you
• help you apply to the First-tier Tribunal

You can also get advice from:

• Citizens Advice Scotland
• Shelter Scotland

If your home is not fit to live in

Our environmental health officers may be able to help if your home falls below the tolerable standard. We can:

• inspect your home
• help you sort out serious problems
• liaise with your landlord
• take action if your home does not meet the standard

A home may not be fit to live in if:

• it has serious damp problems
• it is not structurally stable
• it does not have adequate ventilation, light or heating
• it does not have thermal insulation
• it does not have a supply of fresh water
• it does not have a sink with hot and cold water
• it does not have an indoor toilet
• it does not have a fixed bath or shower and wash basin with hot and cold water
• it does not have proper drainage and sewerage
• its electrical supply does not meet safety regulations
• it does not have satisfactory cooking facilities
• it does not have a proper entrance

You can get advice on resolving these issues from Shelter Scotland or Citizens Advice (Scotland).

Adapting your home

If you rent privately, you have the right to adapt your home to meet the needs of a disabled occupant. Your landlord must agree unless they have a good reason to refuse.