Renting from a private landlord

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An alternative to renting from the Council or housing associations is to rent from a private landlord or agent.

Properties for rent from a private landlord are advertised in a variety of sources such as local newspapers, classified listings or through Internet sites that list rental properties. These will provide you with a guide to what type of accommodation is available in your chosen location and how much it will cost. Instead of renting from a private landlord you may decide to rent from a letting agent. It is recommended that you use an agent who is a member of the Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA).

You should always sign a tenancy agreement when moving into rented accommodation. This document is designed to protect the rights of both the tenant and the landlord. All the terms and conditions of the rental arrangement should be clearly laid out in writing. The Scottish Executive website Better Renting Scotland, gives advice for landlords and tenants on all aspects of private renting.

Part 8 of the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004 requires local authorities to prepare and maintain a register of private landlords and their properties. Renfrewshire Council will establish a registration scheme for private landlords and their properties in late Autumn 2005. This will mean that landlords will register details of themselves and any agents used to manage their property and that landlords and agents will be subject to a 'fit and proper person' test.