In a contentious move, an Edinburgh letting agent, managing over 650 rental properties, has criticized the recent amendments to safety regulations imposed on private landlords. The Repairing Standard Guidance, mandated by the government, delineates repair requirements for landlords in Scotland’s private sector, with the latest revisions slated to become law on March 1, 2024.
Jonathan Gordon, the Managing Director of Clan Gordon letting agents, contends that the latest regulations exhibit “major flaws.” Specifically, he raises concerns about two requirements: the replacement of lead water pipes and the installation of electrical safety equipment. According to Gordon, these demands have either changed too close to the implementation date or lack clarity on the specific tasks needed to meet compliance.
Gordon asserts that Clan Gordon is now actively lobbying the Scottish Government to extend the deadline. The aim is to provide landlords with sufficient time to gain clarity on the rules, which include new stipulations on food preparation spaces, fixed heating systems, and common doors.
Highlighting the challenges posed by the new lead pipework guidance, Gordon states, “In tenement buildings built prior to 1970, the communal main risers… will invariably be made from lead. So, replacing these will be a logistical nightmare.” He emphasizes the significant disruptions and expenses associated with such replacements, especially in the absence of local council grants.
Moreover, Gordon questions the testing procedures for lead in water, citing impracticalities in adhering to the suggested 12-hour period of no water usage before taking a sample, especially in tenement blocks.
The requirement for landlords to install one or more residual current devices (RCDs) to reduce the risk of electrocution and fire also faces scrutiny. While Gordon appreciates the fresh guidance on RCDs, he points out discrepancies arising from changes made just four weeks before the implementation date, creating confusion and additional burdens for landlords.
Gordon acknowledges the importance of safety regulations but insists on clear and unambiguous standards. He urges the Scottish Government to consider pushing back the implementation date, emphasizing the need for future changes to involve sensible consultation with relevant experts.
In the meantime, Clan Gordon vows to continue lobbying against what they perceive as flawed and unworkable rules, calling for a more reasonable and consultative approach to future standards changes.