Coronavirus

Housing update

The Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 brings in a number of temporary measures to protect tenants from eviction.  In the private rented sector (PRS) all grounds for eviction are discretionary – meaning that the Tribunal can take individual circumstances into account in all cases.  For the social rented sector (including local authorities and registered social landlords such as housing associations) evictions are at the discretion of the Sheriff who will decide if the eviction is reasonable.

The notice period for most evictions across the PRS and social sector has been extended to six months, with some exceptions including cases of antisocial or criminal behaviour, or if the tenant is no longer living in the property. The extended notice periods only apply to notices issued after the commencement of the Bill and will apply to all statutory tenancies for at least six months.

Where notices have already been served for eviction, and while the Tribunal is currently not hearing any cases, no legal eviction notice can be issued. A private landlord who does issue a notice without approval from the Tribunal will have committed a criminal offence.

Rent arrears

If you are struggling to pay your rent, council tenants can call a dedicated helpline on 01620 827528, email [email protected] or contact us online.  We have also pulled together a dedicated leaflet on all financial support available during the Covid-19 Crisis. 

Home Energy Scotland

Home Energy Scotland is offering advice to individuals who may be struggling to pay for energy bills during coronavirus outbreak.

Property maintenance 

To safeguard our tenants and staff, Community Housing and Property Maintenance will only attend to essential home visits and repairs, and will only carry out essential external repairs.

All Housing offices are closed to the public although customers can still attend Brunton Hall (Musselburgh) or John Muir House (Haddington). However we would ask that, to protect yourself and our teams, you only visit if it is essential and make contact with us by phone, email or online instead just now.

Travelling community information

A Facebook page has been set up for the Gypsy/Traveller community with information about COVID-19.  A framework is also available to support Gyspy/Traveller communities. 

We appreciate your understanding at this time.

Information on our housing services and local housing offices is available online.