How often should a Scottish landlord review the rental price?

Annually at minimum. The Scottish private rental market shifts regularly and a price that was right 18 months ago may now be 5-15% out of step with market. Lanarkshire and the wider Central Belt have seen meaningful divergence between sub-areas over the last two years, so a recent benchmark check is worth more than the previous review's number.

What counts as a reasonable void period in Scotland?

Under 2 weeks between tenancies is excellent for a well-priced property in a strong area. 2-4 weeks is the typical Scottish average. 1-2 months suggests a pricing or marketing problem worth investigating. Over 2 months consistently indicates a structural issue — condition, location demand, or rent above market.

Do I have to use a letting agent in Scotland?

No. Scottish landlords can self-manage, share management with family or friends, or appoint a letting agent. However, all letting agents in Scotland must be registered under LARS (Letting Agent Registration Scotland) and follow the Letting Agent Code of Practice. If you self-manage, the full statutory compliance burden — LARN, EPC, Gas Safety, EICR, Legionella, deposit lodging, prescribed information — sits with you personally.

Is an EICR required for all Scottish private rentals?

Yes. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is required every 5 years for all Scottish private rental properties. Since March 2024 the Repairing Standard also mandates Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for landlord-supplied electrical appliances. Both should be in the file before tenant move-in.

How much can a Scottish landlord increase rent during a tenancy?

Rent reviews under a PRT are limited to once every 12 months. The tenant has the right to refer any proposed increase to Rent Service Scotland for adjudication. The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022 rent cap, which limited in-tenancy increases to 3%, expired on 1 April 2024 — open-market rent reviews now apply again, subject to the 12-month rule and tenant referral right.

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