Page 17 - November 2023
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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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