Letting agents and landlords in Scotland are now subject to new deadlines for investigating damp and mould, as the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 came into force today, 6 October 2026. These regulations introduce specific timescales for addressing problems in rented properties.
Under Scottish government guidance, landlords are typically required to investigate potential damp or mould within 10 working days of becoming aware of an issue. Following the investigation, a written summary must be provided to tenants within three working days. If repairs are necessary, work must commence within five working days after the investigation concludes.
These new requirements may necessitate that letting agents and property managers review their current procedures, including inspections, record keeping, property access, and contractor arrangements. They will also need to assess when specialist damp and mould expertise is required. Propertymark has noted the operational implications for agents, emphasising the need for robust internal processes to meet the new deadlines.
Hazel MacIver, Policy and Campaigns Officer at Propertymark, stated that the new duties represent "an important change for letting agents and landlords in Scotland." She highlighted the importance of good record-keeping, clear communication with tenants, and access to competent contractors to ensure investigations and remedial work are completed within the required timescales.