Key Changes in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025
Scotland is about to see major changes in renting laws from 2026–2027. These reforms aim to improve tenant protections, raise housing standards, and increase fairness in the private rented sector. Below is a simple breakdown of what’s changing and when.
1 April 2026:
Rent Data Collection
Local councils and the Scottish Government will gain the power to request rent information from landlords. This data will help monitor rental markets and prepare for future rent control policies.
1 May 2026:
Anti‑Discrimination Rules (UK Renters’ Rights Act)
New UK‑wide rules make it illegal for landlords or agents to discriminate against tenants because they have children or receive benefits. Old phrases like “No DSS” or “No children” become unlawful, and related tenancy clauses are invalid. Affordability checks remain permitted, but they must be fair and not used to exclude certain groups.
Scotland will also enforce its own anti‑discrimination measures from the same date.
6 October 2026:
Awaab’s Law (Damp & Mould Repairs)
Landlords will be legally required to follow strict timelines for responding to damp and mould:
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Investigate within 10 working days
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Provide written findings within 3 days
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Start repairs within 5 days if required
If delays are unavoidable, landlords must notify tenants and give a revised timeline. These rules ensure homes stay safe and healthy.
Tenancy Succession
The minimum time someone must have lived with a tenant before being able to take over the tenancy after their death reduces from 12 months to 6 months. This makes it easier for partners, family members, and carers to stay in their home.
Wrongful Termination Payments
Compensation for wrongful eviction increases dramatically:
From up to 6 months’ rent → now 3 to 36 months’ rent. This discourages landlords from using eviction grounds improperly.
Rent Increase Challenges
Tenants will have 30 days (up from 21) to challenge a rent increase. Importantly, rent officers can no longer raise the rent above the landlord’s proposed figure, even if the market value is higher.
1 April 2027:
Ending a Joint Tenancy
A single joint tenant will be able to end the tenancy for all tenants. This replaces the current requirement for all tenants to agree to end the tenancy together.
In Summary
These changes collectively mean:
- More protection from unfair evictions
- Stronger rights around rent increases
- Healthier homes through faster damp/mould repairs
- Fairer access to renting for families and benefit recipients
- Greater clarity for both tenants and landlords
Scotland’s rental landscape is entering its biggest period of reform in years — and these phased changes aim to create a safer, fairer, and more transparent system for everyone involved.
