Private Landlord Registration
Repairing Standard
The Repairing Standard, which came into effect in September 2007, extends the statutory obligations of a private landlord to repair a house. Rented property must now meet the repairing standard before it is let and at all times during the tenancy.
Before a tenancy starts landlords have to make sure that rental property meets the Repairing Standard. This duty applies to the majority of private sector tenancies. The repairing standard applies to existing tenancies not just those which start on or after 3rd September 2007.
To comply with this duty, the landlord or someone acting for the landlord, will have to inspect the property to ensure it meets the standard. At the start of the tenancy (or earlier) landlords must tell tenants about the Repairing Standard and the Private Rented Housing Panel.
A house meets the repairing standard if -
- the house is wind and water tight and in all other respects reasonably fit for human habitation;
- the structure and exterior of the house (including drains, gutters and external pipes) are in a reasonable state of repair and in proper working order,
- the installations in the house for the supply of water, gas and electricity and for sanitation, space heating and heating water are in a reasonable state of repair and in proper working order,
- any fixtures, fittings and appliances provided by the landlord under the tenancy are in a reasonable state of repair and in proper working order,
- any furnishings provided by the landlord under the tenancy are capable of being used safely for the purpose for which they are designed, and
- the house has satisfactory provision for detecting fires and for giving warning in the event of fire or suspected fire.
More information about the Repairing Standard can be found at www.prhpscotland.gov.uk (PDF, 1.1M)
