Landlords risk accidental breaches amid ‘confusing’ regulatory guidance

Private landlords in Scotland are struggling to keep pace with regulatory changes due to fragmented and inconsistent guidance from government and local authorities, according to new research.

A study commissioned by the SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust found that many landlords rely on a patchwork of information sources, including government websites, council guidance, newsletters, online forums and word-of-mouth advice, to understand their legal responsibilities.

The research, based on interviews with landlords across Scotland, suggests the lack of a single, authoritative source of information is increasing the risk of unintentional non-compliance as regulation of the private rented sector becomes more complex.

The report found that most landlords wanted to comply with regulations and considered themselves responsible housing providers, but many said they faced challenges including complex rules, unclear guidance, rising costs and difficulties securing contractors to carry out required work.

Researchers found landlords were generally motivated by a desire to provide safe homes rather than concerns about enforcement action or financial penalties.

The findings build on the SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust’s 2025 Voice of the Landlord Survey, which found that only 41% of landlords felt able to keep up with changes affecting the sector, down from 51% a year earlier. Just 21% believed legislative changes were clearly communicated, while one in four smaller landlords said they struggled to keep pace with new requirements.

The latest research also found that many landlords rely on passive sources of information, such as email updates and media reports, which can create a false sense of compliance. Difficulties finding reliable tradespeople were also cited as a cause of delays to repairs, inspections and safety checks.

Many landlords reported receiving little or no direct communication from local authorities despite being registered through Scotland’s landlord registration system.

The report comes as more than 330,000 Scottish households live in the private rented sector and ahead of further reforms, including proposed rent controls and new energy efficiency requirements.

Among its recommendations, the Trust called for the creation of a single online source of information for private rented sector regulations, clearer communication when rules change, more practical compliance tools and guidance, targeted financial support for energy efficiency upgrades, and approved lists of contractors and tradespeople to help landlords meet their obligations.

Dr Jennifer Harris, head of policy at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “Providing homes in the private rented sector is a significant responsibility, and landlords should have the support and clarity needed to meet the standards that are rightly expected of them.

“However, this research shows many landlords who are trying to do the right thing are struggling to navigate what has become an increasingly complex and fragmented system.

“Too often, landlords are piecing together information from multiple sources and hoping they have not missed something important.

“If reforms to the private rented sector are going to succeed, landlords need clearer communication, simpler systems and more practical support to comply with the rules.”

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