The Scottish government has introduced a new model private residential tenancy agreement to make things easier for both landlords and tenants. This agreement is designed to be easy to understand for everyone involved, and it includes a set of “easy read” notes that explain the different sections of the agreement.

The notes provide a plain language description of each section of the contract, which can be particularly helpful for those who have difficulty understanding legal jargon or complex documents.

Here are some of the key sections of the easy read notes that tenants and landlords should familiarize themselves with:

1. Your tenancy

This section of the agreement outlines the basic terms and conditions of the tenancy, including the start and end date of the tenancy, the amount of rent, and any special provisions or conditions that apply.

2. Rent

This section explains how much rent is to be paid and when, as well as any payment methods that are available. It also outlines the consequences of late or missed payments.

3. Deposits

This section explains how much deposit is required and how it will be protected. It also explains how the deposit will be returned at the end of the tenancy.

4. Repairs and maintenance

This section outlines the tenant`s responsibilities for keeping the property in good condition, as well as the landlord`s responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.

5. Ending the tenancy

This section explains how the tenancy can be ended by either the tenant or the landlord, and what steps need to be taken to do so.

By using easy read notes, the Scottish government hopes to make the process of renting a property more accessible and less intimidating for those who may struggle with complex legal language. It`s important for tenants and landlords to take the time to read and understand the notes, as they contain valuable information that can help avoid confusion, misunderstandings, and disputes.