SafeDeposits Scotland Blog

When you move in to a new home, make sure there's a detailed inventory which you agree with. If something is already broken or dirty when you move in but it isn't written on the inventory, you could end up having to pay for it when you move out. What is an inventory? An inventory is a list of everything in the property when you move in (for example, furniture, décor, fixtures and fitting, etc.) and the condition they're in (for example, 'brand new, never...Read More

There are three bits of information you need to access your SafeDeposits tenant account, the tenant name, DAN and DRN number. We do not send you all of these at once, you have to act to receive everything you need. Step 1 - We send you the DRN number Your landlord has to register your deposit within 30 working days of your tenancy beginning. Once the funds are transferred we will confirm that we hold the funds. We will send you a letter or an email. If your landlord or...Read More

On 1 December 2017 new legislation came into force. This means now tenants should now go to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) if landlords or letting agents do not protect their deposits. Previously tenants had to raise a 'summary application' in the Sheriff court against their landlord if they had not protected their deposit. There are no fees involved in taking a case to the First Tier Tribunal. Unprotected deposits Your landlord has to...Read More

Disputes can often be a stressful, disagreements can arise during a tenancy for a number of reasons. It's best for tenants and landlords alike to be able to look to and resolve issues that may arise during or after the tenancy. SafeDeposits always offers free, impartial adjudication on disputes over tenancy deposits. Avoiding disputes during a tenancy 1. Communication. If a problem arises during your tenancy it is important to talk about the issue as soon as possible. Keep a...Read More

Many landlords don't allow any permanent changes to be made to their property. If you have an established and trusting relationship with your landlord they may be happy for you to make alterations. You will have to reach an agreement before thinking of doing anything - if you don't you may lose out on your deposit at the end of the tenancy. Any agreement reached should be put in writing so there is no room for disagreement at the end of the tenancy. If it's a phone call...Read More

The action a tenant needs to take in relation to a garden should be clearly set out in the tenancy agreement. Tenants should always read the tenancy agreement before signing it and if you have any questions ask your potential landlord beforehand. Generally speaking, a tenant should be expected to keep a garden neat, including paths, lawn and flowerbeds and to return the garden in the same condition as at check in. The garden should be seen as an extension house. The same principle as the...Read More