Page 16 - November 2023

EXPERT ADVICE

The latest legislation for landlords in Scotland

Nicky Lloyd, Head of ESPC Lettings, talks us through the latest rules
to be aware of.

f you’re a landlord in Scotland, or want to become one,
it’s essential to keep up to date with the regulations THIS WINTER.
I surrounding private rentals. With many changes over
the last few years, it can be hard to keep track, but ESPC
Lettings can help.

Here’s a brief rundown of the latest landlord legislation:
If you’re a landlord, it’s your responsibility to look

The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act Additional Dwelling Supplement after your property’s pipes. During winter, the cold
The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act Anyone who owns more than one residential
enforces a 3% price cap on private rent property valued at £40,000 or more is liable weather can cause them to freeze, crack or burst.
increases, offers tenants additional protection to pay an Additional Dwelling Supplement,
and is in place until 31 March 2024. currently 6% of the purchase price.
Take a moment to make sure your pipes are insulated;
Fire, heat and smoke alarms Tenancy Deposit Schemes this will help protect your property and save you
Every property must have interlinked smoke All deposits paid by tenants must be placed
and heat alarms fitted. in one of three Scottish Tenancy Deposit from having to make costly repairs.
Schemes (TDS): SafeDeposits Scotland,
For deaf or hard of hearing tenants, additional mydeposits Scotland, or Letting Protection
accessories, such as flashing lights and vibrating Service Scotland.
pads, must be made available by the landlord. Find out more at
Legionella risk assessment YourWaterYourLife.co.uk/Winter
EPC certification All rented properties in Scotland must have a
Proposals suggest that all privately rented risk assessment for Legionella carried out.
properties must have an EPC rating of at least
C at change of tenancy from 2025, and all Additional checks
properties must meet the standard by 2028. All rental properties must have annual gas
This may change, but it’s always a good idea safety checks and Portable Appliance Tests,
to look at what can make your property more while all wiring and sockets must be checked
energy efficient. regularly - ideally every three years.
Keep up to date this winter by following us on

ESPC Lettings is an Edinburgh letting agent. We can help with marketing your rental property and finding the right tenants. Scottish Water scottish_water
Contact the team on 0131 253 2847 or landlord@espc.com.
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