Tenant Hasn’t Paid Rent: Actions to Take in Scotland

Rent arrears can create significant challenges for landlords and tenants alike. As a professional letting agency, we follow a structured, legally compliant process to recover unpaid rent while giving tenants ample opportunity to resolve their arrears. Below is a detailed breakdown of our approach when a tenant misses a payment.

First Day: Automated Reminder Sent

• As soon as a rent payment is missed, our system automatically sends a text message and email to the tenant.

• This is a polite reminder that rent is overdue and should be paid immediately.

• At this stage, the tenant may have simply forgotten, and the reminder often prompts quick payment.

Second Day: Direct Contact with the Tenant

• If the payment remains outstanding, we escalate our approach by personally contacting the tenant via email or phone.

• The purpose of this call or email is to:

  • Check if there is a genuine issue preventing payment.

  • Offer to discuss payment options if they are facing financial difficulties.

  • Reiterate that rent must be paid as per the tenancy agreement.

First Week : Continued Daily Reminders

• If there is still no payment or response, we will continue daily follow-ups via text, email, and phone calls.

• This frequent contact ensures the matter is not ignored and keeps the tenant aware of their obligations.

• If the tenant responds and requests extra time, we may consider a short extension based on their circumstances.  It is important to keep a log of the communication so as not to harass the Tenant but be able to demonstrate the requests.

Days 7–14: Pre-Eviction Action Letter Issued

• If the arrears remain unpaid after a full week, we issue a formal Pre-Eviction Action Letter via email and post.

• This letter formally notifies the tenant that their rent is overdue and outlines the next steps if the issue is not resolved.

• The letter includes:

  • The total amount of rent arrears.

  • A clear warning that non-payment can lead to eviction proceedings.

  • Information on financial assistance, such as housing benefit options or debt advice services.

  • An urgent request for the tenant to contact us to discuss their options.

• This is a critical stage, as tenants who engage at this point still have an opportunity to arrange a resolution before legal action begins.

Days 14–30: Continued Follow-Ups & Second Pre-Eviction Action Letter

• During this period, we continue to contact the tenant daily via multiple channels to encourage payment.

• If no meaningful progress has been made, we send a Second Pre-Eviction Action Letter around Day 30.

• This second letter is firmer in tone and:

  • Restates the arrears amount and reminds the tenant of their obligations.

  • Explains that further legal action will be taken if the arrears are not cleared.

  • Again, provides information on payment plan options and financial support resources.

First and Second Month: Intensified Contact & Further Legal Warnings

• We continue regular reminders via text and email

• If the tenant remains unresponsive or unwilling to engage, we begin sending additional formal letters that:

  • Warn of impending legal action if rent is not paid.

  • Offer a final opportunity to set up a payment plan to avoid further action.

  • Include a detailed statement of arrears, breaking down the outstanding balance.

Days 60+: Final Warnings & Eviction Process Preparation

• By this point, the tenant has missed two full months of rent payments, and the risk of eviction becomes very real.

• We send a final set of letters that:

  • Clearly state that the eviction process is now imminent.

  • Reiterate that legal action can result in the tenant being ordered to leave the property.

  • Provide one final opportunity for the tenant to settle the arrears or arrange a payment plan.

• If no resolution is reached at this stage, we begin the formal eviction process.

After 4 Consecutive Months of Rent Arrears: Eviction Process Initiated

• If rent arrears continue for four consecutive months, we escalate the matter and refer the case to an eviction specialist.

• At this stage, we take the following legal steps:

  • Issue a formal Notice to Leave – This is a legal document informing the tenant that eviction proceedings have begun.

  • Apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) via Eviction Specialist – We submit evidence of arrears, tenant communication history, and the steps taken to resolve the issue.

  • Attend a tribunal hearing via an eviction specialist – The tribunal reviews the case and may grant an eviction order.

  • Engage sheriff officers (if necessary) – If the tenant does not vacate voluntarily, we work with sheriff officers to enforce the eviction order.

By following this structured process, we ensure that all necessary steps are taken to recover unpaid rent while also giving tenants every reasonable opportunity to resolve their arrears before eviction becomes unavoidable.  If you are considering renting your property in Glasgow, then get in touch to discuss these steps further.

If you are a Landlord in Glasgow, then it’s important you seek the correct legal advice. We highly recommend the Scottish Association of Landlords.