Tenancy deposits remain one of the most important, and often most complex, aspects of renting in Scotland. Deposits ensure tenants’ money is protected while giving landlords reassurance against unpaid rent or damage. But as today’s rental market becomes more pressured, deposit scenarios are becoming more complicated too.
In episode 103 of Lets Talk, host Gillian Semmler speaks with Frankie Bishop, Client Relations Manager at SafeDeposits Scotland, to discuss the challenges, responsibilities, and evolving trends surrounding tenancy deposits.
Are landlords meeting their legal obligations today?
Frankie begins by revisiting the fundamentals. Landlords in Scotland must protect a tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme but how consistently is this being followed in practice? And how aware are tenants of their rights? Frankie shares SafeDeposits’ insights into compliance levels and public understanding.
Affordability pressures and changing behaviours
With Scotland’s rental market tightening, affordability is front and centre. Gillian and Frankie discuss whether tenants are struggling to pay deposits upfront, whether landlord behaviour is shifting, and what patterns SafeDeposits is observing across registrations and disputes.
When tenancy scenarios get complicated
Not all tenancies run on a simple, “everyone moves out together” basis. Frankie explains:
- What should happen when one tenant leaves but the others stay
- How deposits should be handled when household members change over many years
- What happens when damage is disputed but evidence, like an inventory, is missing
In long-term or shared living arrangements, responsibilities can become blurred. Frankie explains how adjudicators approach these “grey areas” and who is typically held accountable when the timeline of damage is unclear.
Understanding disputes and wear-and-tear
Fair wear-and-tear remains one of the largest sources of confusion between landlords and tenants. Frankie discusses how SafeDeposits’ dispute resolution process works, what evidence carries weight, and how common misunderstandings can be avoided.
Looking ahead
The conversation also touches on sector-wide challenges such as unclaimed deposits, education gaps, and how SafeDeposits is helping to improve understanding across the industry.
Tenancy deposits may not always be straightforward, but clarity around rights and responsibilities can make renting smoother for everyone.
Get involved
Frankie also explains how SafeDeposits works to support communities and the wider housing sector beyond deposit protection. Their Community Fund, offers financial support to local projects that make a positive difference across Scotland. Those interested in applying, still have time before the next deadline of 27th February 2026. For more info, go to https://www.safedepositsscotland.com/
Gillian and Frankie also look ahead to March when SafeDeposits host their Spring Fling in aid of the STV Children’s Appeal; an opportunity for anyone in the private rented sector to get involved, attend, or contribute to a great cause. If you are interesting in supporting this fantastic event, contact events@safedeposits.com
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