How to Rent

A guide to renting in Scotland

Renting a home should be straightforward, transparent, and supported from start to finish.

We believe tenants deserve clear information, fair treatment, and good-quality homes that are safe, well managed, and compliant with Scottish housing law. Whether you’re renting privately, moving into a Build to Rent (BTR) apartment, or applying for a Mid-Market or Social Rent home, our goal is to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

This guide explains what to expect when renting through Highlight, how to prepare before signing a tenancy, and what your rights and responsibilities are once you move in. It also outlines the key differences between Scotland’s main types of rental housing and what you can expect from us as your letting agent.

How to Rent Guide

Shining A Light On Renting

Understand the Types of Rent

In Scotland, there are several ways to rent a home. We can help you find what’s right for you:

  • Private Rent – Homes rented at market value, usually from a private landlord or agent.
  • Build to Rent (BTR) – Professionally managed apartments with modern amenities and flexible leases.
  • Mid-Market Rent (MMR) – Affordable homes for people on moderate incomes who don’t qualify for social housing.
  • Social Rent – Homes owned by housing associations or councils, offered at lower rent for people in housing need.

Each type of rent has different rules, so always check what applies before you sign up.

When looking for a home:

  • Think about location, budget, and transport links.
  • Make sure the rent fits within what you can afford each month.
  • Ask about council tax band, heating type, and what’s included in the rent.
  • Check how long you can stay and if pets are allowed.

Depending on the type of tenancy, homes may be listed on our website, on major online property portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla, or through the local authority’s choice-based lettings system for social and affordable housing.

Again, depending on the tenure, you will need to register as a tenant with Highlight, or with the local authority. Before discussing availability for a property advertised with Highlight, we ask all prospective tenants to complete a short application form so we can understand your requirements and confirm eligibility for the property.

The form helps us:

  • Make sure the home suits your needs, household size, and budget
  • Check basic details such as employment status and move-in timeframe
  • Ensure fair and consistent handling of enquiries

Once your application is received, our team will review it and match you to available properties. This process helps us match applicants to the right homes more quickly and ensures viewings are offered fairly to everyone interested.

Always view the property in person, if you can. During your viewing:

  • Look at the condition of the home and make sure it feels right for you.
  • Check that smoke alarms, heating, and appliances work.
  • Ask about repairs, maintenance, and who to contact once you move in.

If you can’t attend in person, we can often arrange a virtual viewing.

Once your application is approved, we’ll send you a tenancy agreement to review and sign. This sets out:

  • Your rights and responsibilities
  • The rent amount and how to pay it
  • Notice periods and how to end the tenancy
  • How repairs and maintenance will be handled

Tenancy types vary depending on the home:

  • Private Rent / Build to Rent (BTR) / Mid-Market Rent (MMR): use a Private Residential Tenancy (PRT)
  • Social Rent: uses a Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) or Short SST with a housing association or local authority

Always read your agreement carefully before signing, and ask if anything isn’t clear. We’ll confirm your move-in date and ensure any deposit payable is protected in an approved Scottish Tenancy Deposit Scheme.

If required, you’ll pay a refundable deposit (normally up to two months’ rent) and your first month’s rent before moving in.

By law, your deposit must be held in a Scottish Tenancy Deposit Scheme, such as:

  • SafeDeposits Scotland
  • Letting Protection Service Scotland
  • MyDeposits Scotland

You’ll get confirmation once your deposit is protected.

In Scotland, letting agents can’t charge administration or holding fees – only rent and deposit payments are allowed.

Before you move in, we’ll:

  • Record the condition of the property with a full inventory report, supported by photography or videography..
  • Make sure safety checks and certificates are up to date.
  • Give you information on how to report repairs or emergencies.

Keep copies of all paperwork and take your own photos on move-in day – they’ll help if there’s ever a dispute later.

Once you’ve moved in:

  • Pay your rent on time.
  • Keep the property clean and in good condition.
  • Report any repairs or problems straight away.
  • Allow access for safety checks when needed.

If Highlight manages the rental property, we will:

  • Respond quickly to maintenance requests.
  • Give at least three months’ notice of any rent increase (only once every 12 months).
  • Ensure your home stays safe and compliant with Scottish standards.

If something goes wrong or you have a concern, talk to us first – we’ll always try to resolve it quickly.

You can also get independent advice from:

When you’re ready to leave:

  • Give 28 days’ written notice (unless otherwise agreed)
  • Leave the property clean and tidy
  • Remove all belongings and return all keys
  • We’ll carry out a final inspection and request your deposit refund from the approved scheme
  • Any deductions will be clearly explained and can be disputed if needed

After you move out:

  • Update your address with the council, utility providers, and any services
  • Keep copies of your final bills and deposit correspondence
  • Contact us if you’d like help finding your next home with Highlight
Find Your Highlight

Your Journey to Your Future Home

We are dedicated to helping people find the home that matches their needs and aspirations. By offering personalised support at every stage, we recognise the unique requirements of individuals and families and are committed to working alongside you to ensure that you feel confident and secure throughout your home finding journey.

Start your search to Find A Home today. Get in touch, ask questions, and connect with our team. Each step you take brings you closer to opening the door to your future home.