Glasgow renting FAQs - everything tenants need to know, answered honestly

Question 1

How do I find properties available to rent through Western Lettings?

Answer

All our available properties are listed on our website as well as the main letting portals - Rightmove, Zoopla, Citylets and S1 Homes. Our website ranks number one on Google for most letting-related searches in Glasgow, so it's usually the quickest place to start. Each listing includes photographs, a 360° virtual tour and a full property description written by the property manager who visited the property.

Question 2

How do I apply for a property?

Answer

Find a property you like on our website and click the 'apply online' button. We review applications as they come in and will normally get back to you within one business day to discuss your note of interest. You won't be left wondering - if we have an update, we'll share it with you.

Question 3

What criteria do you use when assessing applicants?

Answer

We screen applicants based on the landlord's stated preferences and our assessment of their overall suitability. We look for applicants who can demonstrate they can afford the rent - typically, combined income should be at least two and a half times the annual rent - and who have a clean rental and credit history. We use Goodlord to carry out formal referencing once a holding deposit has been paid.

Question 4

Can I apply as a student?

Answer

Yes, depending on the landlord's preferences. Some landlords are happy to consider students; others aren't. Where students are considered, a guarantor is usually required. Your guarantor needs to be a UK homeowner who can demonstrate sufficient income to cover the rent if needed.

Question 5

Can I apply if I have a pet?

Answer

Again, this depends on the landlord. Each listing will indicate whether pets are considered. Where a landlord approves a pet, we draw up a separate pet agreement and ask for an additional £200 on top of the standard security deposit. We'd encourage you to be upfront about pets from the start - trying to bring one in later without approval is a breach of your tenancy agreement.

Question 6

How quickly will I hear back after applying?

Answer

We aim to get back to you within one business day of receiving your application. If we have a strong match and a viewing is appropriate, we'll be in touch to arrange it. You won't be left chasing.

Question 7

How do viewings work at Western Lettings?

Answer

Every viewing is individual - you won't be competing with other applicants in the room or pressured into making a decision on the spot. Your property manager will arrange a time that works for you and be present throughout. You'll have time to look properly and ask questions.

Question 8

What is a reservation deposit and how does it work?

Answer

If you'd like to proceed after your viewing, we'll ask for a £300 reservation deposit from one applicant. This reserves your place in the process while referencing is completed. The reservation deposit is deducted from your final balance before move-in. If you change your mind after paying, it's refunded in full. It's not a commitment - it's a way of holding your place while we complete the necessary checks.

Question 9

Can I view a property more than once before deciding?

Answer

In most cases, yes - subject to the property being available and the landlord's agreement. If you'd like a second viewing before committing, speak to your property manager and we'll do our best to arrange it.

Question 10

What should I look for during a viewing?

Answer

Look at the condition of the property carefully - the state of the kitchen, bathroom, windows and any appliances. Check for signs of damp or condensation. Try taps and any appliances included. Ask about heating, broadband availability and any known maintenance issues. The inventory produced at move-in will record condition formally, but it's worth forming your own view at the viewing stage.

Question 11

How does referencing work?

Answer

Referencing is handled through Goodlord, a straightforward online platform you can complete from your phone. You'll submit your ID and affordability evidence by sending photos directly through the app - no printing or scanning required. Vouch carries out residency, credit and affordability checks and obtains a previous landlord reference where possible. The process normally takes a day or two.

Question 12

What documents will I need for referencing?

Answer

You'll typically need photo ID, proof of address and evidence of income - payslips, a bank statement or a letter from your employer. If you're self-employed, Vouch will request appropriate financial evidence. Your property manager will let you know exactly what's needed when referencing begins.

Question 13

What happens if my referencing comes back with issues?

Answer

We'll discuss the results with your landlord and come back to you with a decision. If referencing raises concerns, we may ask for a guarantor, a larger deposit or in some cases we may not be able to proceed. We'll always explain why and be as straightforward as possible about the outcome.

Question 14

Do I need a guarantor?

Answer

Not always. A guarantor is typically required where an applicant doesn't meet standard affordability criteria - for example, students, recent graduates or those in their first job. A guarantor must be a UK homeowner who can demonstrate sufficient income to cover the rent. They'll go through the same referencing process with Vouch.

Question 15

How long does referencing take?

Answer

Goodlord typically turns referencing around within one to two business days. We'll let you know as soon as we have a decision. You won't be left wondering where things stand.

Question 16

What happens after referencing is approved?

Answer

We'll confirm your move-in date and start preparing the tenancy agreement for digital signing. Shortly before your move-in date, we'll share a cloud storage folder with all your tenancy documents and send you the balance due for payment.

Question 17

How do I sign my tenancy agreement?

Answer

Your tenancy agreement is sent digitally for signing - no need to come into the office or print anything. Every tenant and their guarantor will be invited to sign. Once everyone has signed, Western Lettings signs on behalf of your landlord and a copy is sent to each party.

Question 18

What is a Private Residential Tenancy?

Answer

A Private Residential Tenancy (PRT) is the standard tenancy agreement for private rentals in Scotland, introduced in 2017. Unlike older tenancy types, a PRT has no fixed end date - it runs until either the tenant gives 28 days' notice or the landlord has a legal ground to end it. We provide easy-read notes alongside your agreement that explain the key terms in plain language.

Question 19

How much do I need to pay before moving in?

Answer

You'll need to pay the balance of your first month's rent and your security deposit before your move-in date. The security deposit is normally one month's rent plus £200 - or plus £400 if a pet has been approved. The full amount must arrive as cleared funds in our client account at least one business day before your move-in date. You'll have received a receipt showing the exact amount when you paid your reservation deposit.

Question 20

What documents will I receive before moving in?

Answer

Shortly before move-in, we'll share a cloud storage folder containing your tenancy agreement and easy-read notes, all safety certificates for your property, a condensation factsheet, a tenant information sheet, a client money protection certificate and your balance receipt. Your property inventory is provided separately via the Inventory Hive app.

Question 21

What happens on move-in day?

Answer

You collect your keys from our office. Before you arrive, we'll have visited your property to take meter readings and make sure everything is in order. Utility companies and the council tax office are notified - you don't need to do that yourself. All your tenancy documents will already be in your shared folder. Your first routine property visit is scheduled for six weeks after your tenancy starts.

Question 22

What is the property inventory and why does it matter?

Answer

The inventory is a detailed record of the condition of your property - every room, every item, every fixture - at the start of your tenancy. It's provided via the Inventory Hive app. It's important because it forms the basis for any deposit deduction discussions at the end of your tenancy. Review it carefully when you move in and flag anything that doesn't look right. The sooner you raise it, the easier it is to address.

Question 23

What should I do if I notice a problem when I first move in?

Answer

Let us know straight away - report it through Fixflo, our maintenance app, or contact your property manager directly. Issues flagged early are much easier to resolve and ensure the inventory reflects the true condition of the property at the start of your tenancy.

Question 24

Do I need to set up utilities myself?

Answer

No. We notify the utility providers of your meter readings and move-in date on the day you collect your keys. You'll receive closing bills for the previous occupant's usage at your new address, which you should forward to us. Going forward, you'll need to set up your own accounts with the providers - they'll be in touch after we notify them.

Question 25

Who is my point of contact during my tenancy?

Answer

Your dedicated property manager. They will introduce themselves by email shortly after your tenancy starts and remain your single point of contact throughout. They know your property - they've been there, they know its history and when you call you'll get straight through to them or their backup. You won't be passed around.

Question 26

How do I report a maintenance issue?

Answer

Through Fixflo, our maintenance app - you'll receive a link when you move in. Log the issue from your phone and we'll take it from there. We use qualified, insured tradespeople and will keep you updated on progress. For genuine emergencies, contact your property manager directly.

Question 27

How quickly will maintenance issues be dealt with?

Answer

We act on any issue we believe can be resolved for under £200 without needing landlord approval first - so straightforward repairs happen quickly. More significant works require landlord approval, but we'll always keep you informed of progress. Emergencies are dealt with immediately.

Question 28

How often will the property be inspected?

Answer

The first inspection takes place six weeks after your tenancy starts. After that, inspections are scheduled every six months. You'll always receive advance notice before we visit - we won't turn up unannounced. Inspections are there to catch maintenance issues early, not to check up on how you live.

Question 29

Can I decorate or make changes to the property?

Answer

Any changes to your property need your landlord's written permission first. This includes painting walls, hanging pictures that require significant fixings, or making any structural changes. Speak to your property manager and we'll seek your landlord's approval. Doing it without permission could result in deductions from your deposit at the end of the tenancy.

Question 30

Can I have guests stay at my property?

Answer

Short-term guests are generally fine. Extended stays - where someone is effectively living in your property - may constitute a breach of your tenancy agreement unless agreed in advance. If you're unsure, speak to your property manager rather than assume.

Question 31

What if I want to keep a pet but didn't mention it at the start?

Answer

Speak to your property manager before getting a pet - not after. Bringing a pet into your property without the landlord's approval is a breach of your tenancy agreement. We'll always try to get landlord approval where we can, but we need to ask first

Question 32

What safety certificates should my property have?

Answer

All Western Lettings properties are fully compliance-checked before any tenant moves in. Depending on your property, this includes a Gas Safety Certificate (renewed annually), an Electrical Installation Condition Report (every five years), PAT testing of landlord-supplied appliances, a Legionella Risk Assessment, a valid Energy Performance Certificate, and working smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms. Copies of all certificates are shared with you at move-in.

Question 33

What is the Repairing Standard and what does it mean for me?

Answer

The Repairing Standard is the minimum condition a private rented property must meet in Scotland. It covers structural integrity, damp and mould, fixed heating, electrical safety, lead-tested water supply and safe food preparation space. Western Lettings carries out a full inspection before every tenancy to confirm the standard is met. If you believe your property falls below the standard during your tenancy, report it to your property manager immediately.

Question 34

What can I do if a maintenance issue isn't being resolved?

Answer

Start by making sure you've reported it properly through Fixflo and followed up with your property manager directly. If you're not getting a satisfactory response, you can escalate the matter within Western Lettings by contacting senior management. If the issue relates to the property not meeting the Repairing Standard, you have the right to apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland - though in our experience, getting to that point is rare.

Question 35

What are my rights as a tenant in Scotland?

Answer

As a Scottish tenant under a Private Residential Tenancy, you have significant rights - including security of tenure (a landlord must have a legal ground to ask you to leave), the right to a habitable property that meets the Repairing Standard, protection of your deposit in an approved scheme, and the right to challenge unfair rent increases. If you're unsure about your rights in a specific situation, Shelter Scotland is an excellent free resource.

Question 36

Can my landlord increase my rent?

Answer

Yes, but there are rules. Under a Private Residential Tenancy, a landlord can only propose a rent increase once every 12 months and must give three months' notice. If you think the increase is above market rate, you can challenge it through Rent Service Scotland. Your property manager will always communicate any proposed increase clearly and in writing.

Question 37

When is my rent due?

Answer

Rent is due on the same date each month as your tenancy start date. If your tenancy started on the 15th, rent is due on the 15th of every month. Your tenancy agreement will confirm the exact date and payment details.

Question 38

How do I pay my rent?

Answer

By standing order from your bank account directly into our client account. Your property manager will provide the payment details when you move in. Setting up a standing order means your rent is paid automatically each month without you needing to do anything.

Question 39

What happens if I can't pay my rent on time?

Answer

Contact your property manager as soon as possible - before the due date if you can. We'd always rather have an honest conversation early than have to pursue a missed payment. We'll keep you informed of progress and work with you where we can. Persistent non-payment is a serious breach of your tenancy agreement and can lead to notice being served.

Question 40

Where is my deposit held?

Answer

Your deposit is protected with Safe Deposits Scotland, one of the three government-approved tenancy deposit schemes in Scotland. We're required to protect it within 30 working days of your tenancy starting. You'll receive a Prescribed Information Sheet confirming where and when your deposit was protected, along with your Deposit Account Number (DAN) - keep this safe, you'll need it at the end of your tenancy.

Question 41

Can my landlord ask for more deposit during the tenancy?

Answer

No. The deposit amount is agreed at the start of the tenancy and cannot be increased during it. The maximum permitted under Scottish legislation is two months' rent. There is one exception to this, which is when you’d like to have a pet. In that event, and subject to approval by your landlord, we will ask for an additional pet deposit of £200.

Question 42

What happens to my deposit if I move out and there's a dispute?

Answer

If agreement can't be reached on deductions, Safe Deposits Scotland handles the dispute independently. Both parties put their case and the scheme's decision is binding. We'll provide the inventory records and photographic evidence from the start and end of the tenancy. The process is independent and designed to be fair to both sides.

Question 43

How much notice do I need to give to end my tenancy?

Answer

28 days' written notice. Your notice period starts from the date your property manager receives it - so send it clearly and keep a record. Under a Scottish Private Residential Tenancy, you can end your tenancy at any time by giving the required notice - there's no fixed end date to wait for.

Question 44

What is the check-out process?

Answer

We'll arrange a check-out appointment with you, send you an explainer video and check-out guidance notes in advance, and carry out a thorough inspection against the inventory. We take photographs, update the inventory and issue a check-out report. Where everything is in order, the process is straightforward. Where cleaning or repairs are required, we'll discuss them with you at the time.

Question 45

What do I need to do to prepare for check-out?

Answer

Pull up your inventory early and go through it room by room. The property needs to be returned clean, tidy and in good order. Pay particular attention to the oven, fridge, microwave, carpets, windows and any outdoor space. Replace any blown light bulbs and launder any landlord-supplied bed linen. The more thoroughly you prepare, the more straightforward the check-out will be.

Question 46

What is normal wear and tear?

Answer

Normal wear and tear is the expected deterioration of a property from ordinary use over time - slight scuffs on walls, carpets that are flattened from use, minor fading of paintwork. It cannot be charged to your deposit. Damage - burns, stains, breakages or deterioration from neglect - is different. If you're unsure about something specific, ask your property manager before your check-out appointment.

Question 47

How do I get my deposit back?

Answer

Use your DAN (Deposit Account Number) to claim your deposit from Safe Deposits Scotland directly. Your DAN was emailed to you shortly after your tenancy started. Where the property has been returned in good order and there are no outstanding issues, your deposit should be returned promptly and in full. No delays, no disputes, no money you're owed sitting in limbo.

Question 48

Do I need to cancel my standing order when I move out?

Answer

Yes - and do it as soon as your last rent payment has been made, not after you've moved out. An additional payment arriving after your tenancy has ended creates unnecessary complications. Western Lettings reserves the right to charge a £25 administration fee for the return of any rent received after the tenancy end date.

Question 49

What happens to my mail after I move out?

Answer

Arrange mail redirection through Royal Mail for all occupants before you leave. Any post that arrives for you after you've moved out will be held at our office for 30 days before disposal. We're not able to forward mail on your behalf.

Question 50

What do I do if my property manager isn't responding?

Answer

If you're not getting a response, call rather than email, and ask to speak to a member of senior management if needed. We take communication failures seriously.

Question 51

What if I feel a maintenance issue is being ignored?

Answer

First please know we take every maintenance issue reported seriously. If you feel your issue has been overlooked or unsatisfactorily resolved make sure you've reported it properly through Fixflo and followed up directly with your property manager. If you're still not getting a response, escalate within Western Lettings. If the issue relates to your property not meeting the Repairing Standard, you have the right to apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland. That said, getting to that point is rare - in our experience, most issues are resolved quickly when they're properly reported.

Question 52

What if I have a dispute with my landlord?

Answer

Your first step is to raise it with your property manager. We act as the professional intermediary between you and your landlord and will work to resolve disputes fairly. If the matter can't be resolved, you have access to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland for tenancy disputes, and to Shelter Scotland for free advice and support.

Question 53

What if I feel the property doesn't meet the Repairing Standard?

Answer

Report the specific issue to your property manager in writing and keep a record. We'll investigate and arrange remedial work where needed. If the issue isn't resolved and you believe the property falls below the legal standard, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland - which has the power to require works to be carried out and can reduce the rent by up to 90% until the standard is met.

Question 54

What if I want to make a formal complaint about Western Lettings?

Answer

Raise it with us directly first - your property manager or a member of senior management is the right starting point. If your complaint can't be resolved internally, you can seek redress through The Property Ombudsman Service (TPOS) TPOS has the power to award compensation of up to £25,000.

Question 55

What if I need to leave my tenancy early?

Answer

Under a Scottish Private Residential Tenancy, you can end your tenancy at any time with 28 days' written notice - there's no penalty for leaving before a specific date. If you're in a difficult situation and need to leave urgently, speak to your property manager. We'll always try to handle it as practically and sensitively as possible.