Scottish Housing Law Changes: What Tenants Need to Know

As part of changes to Scottish housing legislation, a number of updates affecting Scottish Secure Tenancies and Short Scottish Secure Tenancies came into force during 2026. These changes aim to strengthen tenant protections, improve support for people affected by domestic abuse, and introduce new responsibilities for landlords regarding repairs and maintenance.

Support for Tenants Affected by Domestic Abuse

From 1 August 2026, new provisions under the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 give social landlords additional powers to help victim-survivors of domestic abuse remain safely in their homes where appropriate. In certain circumstances, landlords may apply to the court to transfer tenancy rights from a person who has behaved abusively to the victim-survivor. Any decision will be made by the court and each case will be considered carefully and confidentially.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are concerned about someone else, support is available. Please contact Angus Housing Association in confidence on 03451 772244, or email admin@angusha.org.uk.

Changes to Succession Rights

The rules around succession rights are changing. Where eligible, someone wishing to succeed to a tenancy will generally need to have lived in the property as their only or principal home for at least six months before the tenant’s death, reduced from the previous requirement of twelve months. Additionally, where a person entitled to succeed chooses not to take over the tenancy, they may be able to remain in the property for up to six months following the tenant’s death, rather than three months.

Rent Increase Notices

The Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 has updated the way rent increase notices can be issued. In certain circumstances, notices may now be sent by email. If a rent increase is proposed, tenants will still receive the required notice and information explaining the change and any available options.

New Damp and Mould Repair Duties

From 6 October 2026, new repair-related duties, often referred to as “Awaab’s Law”, comes into force. These regulations introduce clear timescales for landlords to investigate reports of damp and mould, provide written outcomes of investigations, and begin any necessary repair work. The aim is to ensure damp and mould issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

Tenants should continue to report any concerns about damp or mould as soon as possible using the Association’s usual reporting channels.

What This Means for You

For most tenants, there is nothing you need to do right now. These changes are designed to provide stronger protections and improve support for tenants. Angus Housing Association will continue to keep tenants informed as further changes to housing legislation are introduced.

If you have any questions about these changes or your tenancy, please contact us on 03451 772244 or visit our Contact Us page.