Repairs Guidance for Tenants

From 3 September 2007, the house you rent from your private sector landlord must meet the new 'repairing standard' which is set out in section 13(1) of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).

From that date onwards, your landlord has a duty to make sure that the house meets the repairing standard. If you think that your house does not meet this standard, you will be able to apply to the prhp for a ruling that your landlord has failed to meet this duty. You cannot make an application under the 2006 Act until after 3 September 2007.

We have prepared a standard Application form and Guidance note. You do not have to use this application form, but we think it will make it easier for you if you do. The form will guide you through what information is required and act as a checklist to make sure that you don't miss anything out.

Before you can make an application to the prhp, you have to notify your landlord that the work needs to be done and give your landlord reasonable time to complete the work. You will have to produce evidence to show that you have done this. Since the duty does not arise until 3 September 2007, you must notify your landlord of the work needing done on or after this date, even if you have already given notice before that date.