Updates to the Scottish Secure Tenancy

Updates to the Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST): What Tenants Need to Know in 2026

A refreshed Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) template has been issued for 2026, bringing a number of important changes designed to strengthen tenant protections, modernise communication, and clarify responsibilities for both landlords and tenants. Below is a clear summary of the key updates that will apply to all existing tenants when the new SST comes into effect.

 

Domestic Abuse Protections Strengthened

New provisions have been added to support tenants experiencing domestic abuse. In certain circumstances, the landlord may now apply to the court to end an abusive joint tenant’s interest in the tenancy without ending the tenancy itself. This change appears in the joint tenancy and assignation section and is reflected again in the updated court order grounds.

 

Expanded Court Order & Eviction Grounds

The 2026 SST goes further than the 2019 version by:

• Including new court powers relating specifically to domestic abuse cases
• Adding two new grounds linked to abusive behaviour
• Ensuring partners or ex‑partners are notified where relevant

These updates aim to provide clearer routes for action in serious situations while improving safety for affected tenants.

 

Clearer Damp & Mould Responsibilities

The previous condensation‑focused clause has been replaced with a more robust commitment from landlords. The 2026 SST states that landlords must ensure homes are substantially free from rising or penetrating damp.

A new process also applies from 6 October 2026 for cases of substantial damp or mould, including defined investigation and repair timescales.

 

New Damp & Mould Response Timescales

Where substantial damp or mould is reported, landlords must now:

• Investigate within 10 working days
• Provide a written summary of findings within 3 working days of the investigation
• Begin required repairs within 5 working days of the investigation concluding
• Notify the tenant if timescales cannot be met for reasons outwith the landlord’s control

These changes are intended to ensure faster, more transparent responses.

 

Water Byelaws Clause Added

A new clause requires landlords to take reasonable steps—alongside any joint owners—to comply with local Water Bye‑Laws. This includes:

• Proper maintenance of storage cisterns
• Ensuring stopcocks and servicing valves are in place
• Protecting water pipes from freezing or damage

 

Succession Residency Period Reduced

The qualifying residency period for succession has been reduced from 12 months to 6 months for:

• Level One co‑habitees
• Level Two family members
• Level Three carers

This change aims to simplify and speed up succession processes.

 

Post‑Death Occupation Period Extended

Previously, someone entitled to succeed but choosing not to take on the tenancy had to leave within three months.

The 2026 SST extends this period to six months, giving households more time to make arrangements.

 

Mutual Exchange Refusal Grounds Updated

A new reasonable ground for refusing a mutual exchange has been added:

Where a tenant has provided false or misleading information during the application process.

 

Digital & Electronic Communication Modernised

Rent increase notices and other charge‑related notices may now be issued electronically—such as by email—where the tenant has agreed to this in writing in advance.

We will be developing a project over the coming weeks and months to support tenants in opting into electronic communication safely and securely.

 

Updated Notices Wording

The SST now refers to postal services that record delivery, including methods that evidence delivery without requiring the tenant to confirm receipt.

 

Household Notification Process

Tenants should now follow the updated process set out in the Tenant Handbook when notifying the landlord of household changes.

 

UK GDPR Wording Updated

References to data protection have been updated to reflect the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

 

What Happens Next

These changes will be incorporated into all SSTs going forward. Existing tenants do not need to sign a new agreement, but the updated terms will apply automatically once implemented. We will continue to share guidance and support materials to help tenants understand how the changes may affect them.

If you have any questions about the updated SST, please contact us