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The 2026 Regulations, which came into force on 23 June 2026, amend the prescribed method for assessing the seriousness of hazards in housing and the prescribed hazard descriptions to make them easier to understand and apply. Local authorities can take enforcement action where a Category 1 hazard exists and are given discretion to act where a Category 2 hazard exists.
As the dust settles following the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, lettings agencies are finding alternative ways to mitigate uncertainty and financial risk for landlords. A range of services are growing in popularity that replace traditional, abolished methods like rent in advance, not least professional rent guarantor provision. This service offers reassurance for good tenants who can afford the rent but don’t quite meet the right criteria on paper, including students, self-employed people or those on benefits, or retirees.
Letting agents in Scotland should review their reporting, inspection, and repair processes after the Scottish Government published new guidance to support the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, which come into force on 6 October 2026. The Regulations apply to private rented homes covered by the Repairing Standard, as well as relevant social housing.
Under the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, landlords must investigate reports of damp or mould within set timescales and provide tenants with a Written Summary of the investigation findings.