Register before letting
Most private landlords in Scotland must join the landlord register through the relevant local authority and renew registration as required. Advertising may need the registration number or “registration pending” wording.
Licensing for HMOs is separate. A shared property can need HMO approval depending on occupants and households.
Choose the Scottish agreement
Most new private tenancies where the property is the tenant’s main home use the private residential tenancy and its statutory terms. Deposits must use an approved Scottish scheme within the relevant deadline.
Do not use an English tenancy template or assume England’s May 2026 possession and rent rules apply.
Resident landlords
Someone sharing their own home with an occupier may fall outside the private residential tenancy system and use a common-law tenancy or occupancy arrangement. That does not remove safety, fairness or contractual responsibilities.
Confirm status, registration exemptions, HMO position and local rules before advertising.