Fact sheet: Electrical installations and appliances for landlords in Scotland

New regulations have been laid in the Scottish Parliament which, if passed, will place clearer and more time-bound duties on landlords and agents to investigate and address damp and mould in both private and social rented homes. Clear standards, realistic timescales and consistent enforcement are essential if these reforms are to improve housing conditions without reducing supply or creating unintended consequences.

Checking carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and heating systems can help prevent avoidable tragedies. Known as the ‘silent killer’, CO has no smell, taste, or colour, yet even small amounts can be fatal. Hundreds of people are hospitalised each year due to this poisoning, and many could be prevented with simple maintenance and alarm checks.

From 27 October 2025, fixed, enforceable timeframes will be in place for social landlords in England to investigate, make safe and start prevention works to address hazards (including damp and mould), with powers to require alternative accommodation if a home can’t be made safe in time. Similar requirements are set to be extended to the private rented sector (PRS), so now is the time for agents to adopt best practice, future-proof their businesses, and protect tenants and properties.

This year, trees across Britain began shedding leaves weeks ahead of schedule. At a glance, it might seem like a charming sign of an early autumn - in reality, it’s a stress response. Propertymark Industry Supplier, Inventory Base, explains why this subtle ecological shift has very real consequences for the lettings sector.