The notice period depends on the ground and circumstances. A Notice to Leave is not itself an eviction order. Follow the Housing and Property Chamber process and check the current requirements before applying.
Establish the tenancy and ground
For a private residential tenancy, possession is handled through the Scottish Notice to Leave and tribunal process.
- Identify a valid ground and the facts supporting it. Check the current notice period for that ground and the tenant's circumstances.
- Read the current prescribed form and service requirements. Do not use an English section 8 or a Welsh occupation-contract notice.
- Where rent arrears are involved, complete and evidence the Scottish pre-action requirements before seeking eviction.
Prepare for the tribunal
The file should show both the ground and why possession is reasonable.
- Keep the tenancy, notices, service evidence and a dated chronology. For arrears, reconcile the schedule and record efforts to agree payment.
- Consider benefit delays, vulnerability and the tenant's explanation. Preserve relevant information rather than excluding facts that complicate the case.
- Check the required local-authority notification and application documents for the specific route. Obtain advice where notice validity or the ground is disputed.
After notice and decision
The tenant is not physically evicted simply because the Notice to Leave date passes.
- Apply to the Housing and Property Chamber where appropriate and comply with directions and evidence deadlines.
- If an eviction order is granted, follow the lawful enforcement process. Do not remove occupants or change locks yourself.
- Keep any agreed ending or withdrawal of proceedings in writing and settle the deposit, rent account and belongings through the proper processes.
Example: the arrears reduce before the hearing
A fictional tenant makes payments after notice. Update the tribunal with the accurate balance and payment history. Do not present the original schedule as though no payment was received; the current facts and reasonableness still matter.
What to do
- Confirm the tenancy type and evidence for the ground.
- Use the current notice and verify its timing and service.
- Keep tenant communications and any tribunal decisions.
Evidence to keep
- Agreement, ground evidence and notice
- Service record and tribunal papers
Sources and guidance
- Eviction under a private residential tenancyScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026