Ending your tenancy

Ending your tenancy can feel overwhelming, but Roberts Residentials makes the process straightforward.

This guide explains how to give notice, what to expect at checkout, and how your deposit is returned, helping you move out smoothly and confidently.

Step One: How to Give Notice to Leave Your Rental Property

Giving notice correctly is essential to ending your tenancy on time. Below is everything you need to know as a tenant in Scotland.

1. Notice Periods for Different Tenancy Types

Private Residential Tenancy (PRT)

Under a PRT, tenants can end their tenancy at any time by giving:

• 28 days’ written notice,
• plus 2 days for service.

Short Assured Tenancy (SAT)

If you have a SAT, you must give:

• 2 months’ written notice,

unless your agreement specifies a different arrangement.

Always check your tenancy agreement to confirm your notice period.

2. How to Serve Notice Correctly

To end your tenancy with Roberts Residentials:

• Each tenant must send an individual email, on the same day, to your Property Manager,
• An email from one tenant copying others is not valid,
• A letter signed by all tenants (emailed or physically delivered) is also acceptable.

After receiving your notice, your Property Manager will:

• Confirm the notice in writing,
• Provide your checkout instructions,
• Send a link to the Tenant Leaving Form.

3. Viewings During Your Notice Period

Once notice is received (from either party), Roberts Residentials will begin marketing the property.

To make the process smooth:

• Viewings are limited to a maximum of 2 per week while the property is occupied,
• You will receive at least 48 hours’ notice for all viewings,
• Our team will ensure the property is left secure and in the same condition.

You may be present during viewings, but this is not required.

4. Leaving Early or Changing Tenants on a Joint Lease

• If one tenant wishes to leave a joint tenancy, but others want to stay, contact your Property Manager to discuss available options.
• If you want to move out before your 28-day notice ends, earllandlord’s discretioy release is at the n.

If not approved, you may still leave early but will remain liable for rent until the notice period ends.

5. Rental References

If you need a reference for your next property, simply complete the Reference Request Form.

Roberts Residentials does not charge for references.

6. Helpful Resources

To learn more about PRTs in Scotland, visit:

Scottish Government – Private Residential Tenancy: Information for Tenants

Step Two: The Tenant Checkout Process

The checkout is a key part of ending your tenancy and helps ensure a smooth deposit return. Here’s what to expect.

1. Independent Checkout Inspection

An independent inventory company will meet you at the property to complete:

• A full inventory review,
• A detailed property condition report,
• A video checkout inspection.

If you do not wish to attend, Roberts Residentials can arrange access on your behalf.

2. Cleaning Requirements Before You Move Out

To avoid cleaning deductions from your deposit:

• The property must be cleaned to a professional standard,
• You may clean the property yourself or hire a professional cleaning company,
• Your Property Manager can recommend companies offering special rates for Roberts Residentials tenants, or you may hire your own.

3. Before Checkout Day

Please let your Property Manager know if:

• You have questions about the process,
• You notice any maintenance issues,
• You need support preparing for checkout.

Your checkout appointment will take place on your final day of tenancy.

4. Returning Your Keys

All sets of keys must be returned:

• Directly to the inventory clerk at checkout, or,
• Dropped off at the Roberts Residentials office along with your completed Tenant Leaving Form.

5. Receiving Your Checkout Report

Within 3–5 working days, you will receive:

• Your full checkout report,
• The updated inventory,
• A link to the checkout video.

Please check your junk/spam folder.

You will have 48 hours to raise any disputes or concerns.

Step Three: How Your Deposit Is Returned

Understanding how your deposit is handled can help you plan your move with confidence.

1. Where Your Deposit Is Held

All deposits for Roberts Residentials properties are securely held by the Letting Protection Service Scotland (LPS).

LPS releases the deposit directly to tenants once Roberts Residentials confirms whether deductions apply.

2. What You Must Provide Before Your Deposit Can Be Processed

To begin the deposit return process, Roberts Residentials must receive:

• Completed tenant leaving forms and all key sets,
• Your final council tax bill (showing closure or exemption),
• Final paid utility bills.

3. End-of-Tenancy Statement

Once all documents are received:

• Your Property Manager will send an itemised statement of any proposed deductions (e.g., cleaning, damage, missing items),
• Each deduction will include supporting invoices where applicable,
• This will be issued within 30 working days.

Roberts Residentials always aims for deposits to be returned in full, and provides guidance to help tenants avoid deductions.

4. Agreeing or Disputing the Deposit Amount

If all tenants agree with the statement:

• Roberts Residentials will notify LPS within 5 working days,
• LPS will then contact you directly to arrange repayment.

If you dispute any deductions:

• The case will go to the LPS dispute resolution service,
• This process can take up to 45 working days (around 9 weeks).

Need Help Ending Your Tenancy?

Roberts Residentials Property Management is here to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you have any questions about notice, checkout, or deposit returns, your Property Manager will be happy to guide you.