Repairing Standard

If you're renting out a property, as the landlord you're responsible for carrying out some repairs. It's your duty to make sure the property meets the Repairing Standard.

A home meets the Repairing Standard if:

• it's wind and watertight
• the structure and exterior (like the walls and roof) are in a reasonable condition
• the installations for water, gas, electricity, sanitation and heating are in a reasonable state of repair and working order
• any fixtures, fittings or appliances provided by the landlord (like carpets, light fittings and household equipment) are in a reasonable state of repair
• any furnishings provided by the landlord can be used safely for the purpose they were designed
• there is satisfactory provision for, and safe access to a food storage area and a food preparation space 
• common parts pertaining to the house can be safely accessed and used 
• where a house is in a tenement, common doors are secure and fitted with satisfactory emergency exit locks 
• electrical safety inspections are carried out by a qualified electrician at least once every five years
• the property meets the statutory Tolerable Standard

A landlord is not required to carry out any work on common parts if they cannot get the rights or consent needed to do it. They must take reasonable steps to get the rights or consent, but they are not at fault if this cannot be done.

Read the Repairing standard: statutory guidance for landlords on gov.scot. 

Other responsibilities

In flats, the Repairing Standard includes any common parts of the building if a tenant is adversely affected by something that is in disrepair or not in proper working order.

Landlords also have responsibilities under UK wide legislation for gas safety and health and safety at work (including the duty to carry out risk assessments for Legionella).

Landlords may also have additional responsibilities if the house is a HMO (house in multiple occupation).

If your property does not meet the standards

If your property does not meet the Repairing Standard and you refuse to carry out the repair work, your tenant might report you to the Housing and Property Chamber.