Understanding the Landlord Registration Number (LARN): Ensuring Safety When Letting/Renting Remotely

Gardner's Crescent Garden at 9pm in June of 2024, as seen from a bench facing Fountainbridge.

I know trying to rent remotely is no walk in the park. There’s often a fear of encountering issues such as the property not being as advertised or, worse, the property not existing at all. To mitigate these concerns, one effective strategy is to work with a relocation agent who can serve as your eyes on the ground, physically inspecting the property on your behalf. Another crucial tool that can help ensure that, that property you’ve found is on the up and up is by checking the Landlord Registration Number (LARN) registry. LARN is essential for verifying the legitimacy of landlords and property managers. In this blog, we'll explore what LARN is, how to look it up, its importance, and how it can help ensure a positive renting experience. By understanding and utilizing LARN, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with remote renting and gain peace of mind knowing that your potential landlord has been vetted and approved by local authorities.

What is LARN?

The Landlord Registration Number (LARN) is a unique identifier required by all landlords renting out properties in Scotland. This number ensures that landlords meet specific standards and legal requirements, promoting a fair and safe housing market. Being registered provides a layer of security for tenants, ensuring that their landlord has been vetted and approved by local authorities.

The Landlord's Qualification Process for LARN and Renter Protection

Obtaining a Landlord Registration Number (LARN) is not merely a formality; it's a critical component of the Scottish Government's strategy to improve the quality of private renting by ensuring that landlords meet specific legal and safety standards. Here’s a breakdown of the qualification process and its significance:

• Application Requirements:

  • Fit and Proper Person Test: Landlords must demonstrate that they are fit and proper to let properties. This assessment considers any past criminal convictions, breaches of landlord laws or codes of practice, and discrimination practices.

  • Property Safety: Landlords must ensure that their properties meet certain safety standards, including gas safety certificates, electrical safety, smoke alarms, and secure access.

• Why It’s Required:

  • Enhanced Tenant Safety: These rigorous checks are designed to protect tenants from unsafe living conditions and unethical practices.

  • Legal Compliance: Ensuring landlords abide by housing regulations helps maintain a baseline quality of living and promotes fairness in the rental market.

• What Happens If a Property Is Not Registered?
  

  • Investigation and Penalties: If you discover a property that seems ideal but lacks a registered landlord, proceed with caution. Renting from an unregistered landlord can lead to complications. Local authorities have the power to investigate and impose penalties on unregistered landlords, which can include fines and being barred from renting properties in the future.

Benefits of Renting from a Registered Landlord

Renting from a landlord who holds a valid LARN offers numerous benefits. It ensures that the landlord adheres to safety standards and legal obligations, providing security and peace of mind. Registered landlords are also more likely to resolve issues professionally, giving tenants better support from local authorities if problems arise. Additionally, these landlords tend to conduct transactions transparently and provide clear contracts, making the rental process smoother and more trustworthy.

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LARN numbers are often found at the bottom of the description of the let/rental

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How to Look Up a LARN

When searching for a flat/apartment, you’ll typically find the Landlord Registration Number (LARN) listed at the very bottom of the property description (see photo above for an example). If the description does not include a LARN, you can always look up the property by its address. I highly recommend bookmarking the LARN search registry for quick access during your flat search.

• Scottish Government's Website: The official portal provides a public register where you can search for landlords using their name, address, or provided LARN.

  • If the link doesn't work try: https://landlordregistrationscotland.gov.uk/search
    

If you're not familiar with UK postcodes, they start with letters that identify the city/council and are followed by numbers that pinpoint specific areas and streets. For example, in the postcode EH2 AA: 'EH' indicates Edinburgh, '2' covers a few neighborhoods around and into the city center, and 'AA' represents approximately 10 properties off St. Andrew's Square. If you’re having difficulty finding postcodes for your search, this postcode area website can help you get granular with accuracy.

• If the link doesn't work try: https://www.postcodearea.co.uk/postaltowns/edinburgh/

Conclusion

Resources like the Scottish Government’s LARN registry are invaluable in your search. By ensuring that your potential landlord is registered and vetted, you can protect yourself from scams and unsafe living conditions. Stay informed, and if you need additional support, consider working with a relocation agent to ensure the best possible experience in finding your new home. Happy house hunting!

View of the sun setting around 11pm at night from the Dalry Cemetery, take in June of 2024. Graveyards in Edinburgh are a popular walking and wee picnic spot.