New Legislation Brings Major Changes for Scottish Secure Tenants

Most of the new measures will come into force on 1 August 2026, with additional regulations relating to damp and mould taking effect on 6 October 2026.

Digital Delivery of Tenancy Notices

From August, tenants who have chosen paper-free communications will be able to receive certain tenancy notices electronically. This will include documents such as rent increase notifications, helping to modernise communication between landlords and tenants.

Stronger Protection for Victims of Domestic Abuse

New powers will enable social landlords to apply to the court to remove perpetrators of domestic abuse from sole or joint tenancies. Where appropriate, tenancy rights can be transferred to the victim-survivor, allowing them to remain safely in their home.

The changes aim to reduce homelessness caused by domestic abuse, support families to remain within their communities, and place responsibility on those responsible for abusive behaviour rather than the victims.

Easier Access to Succession Rights

The rules governing tenancy succession following a tenant's death are also changing. The qualifying residence period required before a family member, carer or other eligible person can succeed to a tenancy will reduce from 12 months to six months.

The change is expected to make succession easier for qualifying individuals while maintaining legal safeguards.

New Rights for Pet Owners

Under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, tenants will gain a clearer right to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must consider each application individually and cannot unreasonably withhold consent.

Housing providers will have 30 days to respond to requests. If no decision is provided within that timeframe, permission will automatically be granted.

Faster Action on Damp and Mould

From 6 October 2026, new regulations known as Awaab's Law will introduce strict timescales for addressing reports of damp and mould.

Under the new rules, landlords must:

Investigate reports within 10 working days.

Provide investigation findings within 3 working days.

Begin any required repairs within 5 working days of the investigation concluding.

Keep tenants informed where exceptional circumstances affect these timescales.

The regulations are designed to improve housing conditions and protect the health and wellbeing of tenants and their families.

Further Information

Ochil View Housing Association is encouraging tenants to keep the notification letter with their tenancy agreement for future reference. Anyone with questions about the changes can contact the Housing Services Team on 01259 722899 or email housing@ochilviewha.co.uk.