Gatridge AIRenting in Scotland: when your landlord can come in
Applies in Scotland · Checked against the sources on 7 November 2026
The short answer
If you have a private residential tenancy, your landlord must give you at least 48 hours' notice before coming in to inspect the property or do repairs. Less notice is allowed only in an emergency.
How much notice
- Private residential tenancy: at least 48 hours. This is the usual tenancy for private renting in Scotland.
- Assured or short assured tenancy: at least 24 hours. These are older tenancy types.
The notice should be in writing.
Why they can come in
With the right notice, your landlord can come in to:
- inspect the property;
- check whether repairs are needed;
- do repair work.
For any other reason, it's up to you whether to let them in.
In an emergency
Your landlord can give less notice only in an emergency, for example to stop water flooding into another property.
If you say no
Your landlord can't come in if you refuse. Instead, they can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber), which can decide whether they should be let in and set a date and time.
Sources
- mygov.scot: Getting access for repairs or inspections as a private landlord
- mygov.scot: Giving a private landlord access for repairs and inspections
England, Wales and Northern Ireland have different rules. This is general information, not legal advice. For help with your own situation, a free adviser such as Citizens Advice Scotland or Shelter Scotland can help.
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