New laws in Scotland mean that short term holiday lets (like Airbnbs) will need to have PAT testing and EICR in place.

Find out more about the new regulations for landlords in Scotland and how RB Grant can keep you protected.

The new rules for holiday lets in Scotland

Short-term holiday lets in Scotland need five-yearly PAT tests and landlord electrical safety certificates (also known as EICR inspections).

By short-term holiday lets, we mean anything that people may hire for a short break, from holiday cottages to AirBnB rentals.

Previously, only long-term rentals had to have PAT and landlord electrical safety certificates completed.

Similar to long-term rentals, owners of holiday rentals will need PAT testing and landlord electrical safety certificates to obtain licences from their local council.

When will the new holiday let rules for Scotland be in place by?

Existing short-term let owners in Scotland will need a licence for each property they own by 1 April 2023.

All short-term lets will need to be licensed by 1 July 2024.

Do these rules apply to the rest of the UK?

Scotland is the only part of the UK where PAT testing and landlord electrical safety certificates are mandatory for short-term rentals.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, these checks are recommended for holiday lets, but they aren’t a legal requirement.

Other PAT and landlord electrical safety certificate information you may be interested in

• EICRs in Scotland – what you need to know
• A guide to EICR for landlords
• What are the PAT testing requirements for landlords?

Need PAT testing for your Airbnb? RB Grant has you covered

Wherever you are in Scotland, RB Grant can carry out PAT testing and landlord electrical safety certificates for your holiday let.

We have experience in testing both long and short-term holiday lets meaning that with us, you have the peace of mind that your rental property or Airbnb is safe.

Learn more from Airbnb requirements for electrical testing