Landlords in Peterhead can sign-up for free training into managing tenancy deposits and disputes following higher-than-average rent arrears claims.

Last year, rent arrears in Peterhead accounted for 40% of the total tenancy deposit deductions from rental properties in the town, more than double the Scottish average.

Delivered by SafeDeposits Scotland’s experts, the workshop will outline what the landlord has to do to protect the deposit and demonstrate how to present evidence if there is a dispute with a tenant.

Part of SafeDeposits’ programme of workshops touring the country, the course will be held at the Buchan Braes Hotel on 24th November from 1.00pm and 4.00pm.

The average rent claim awarded in Peterhead is higher than the Scottish average (£421 v £412) and it is thought that this is one of the reasons the town has a higher proportion of deductions coming from rent claims than is the norm elsewhere in the country.

The workshop will be aimed at those who have not received previous training on adjudications and will include the use of real case studies of adjudication cases SafeDeposits Scotland has dealt with. In addition, information on how an adjudicator comes to a decision regarding the amount they decide to reward will be provided.

Victoria Smith, chief operating officer at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “As well as protecting tenancy deposits, SafeDeposits is committed to providing guidance and raising standards in the private rented sector. These courses will help landlords and agents around Peterhead provide a higher quality service to their tenants and better protect their own investments.

“Some landlords and letting agents make errors at the beginning of tenancies which can cause problems at the end of the lease agreement. The private rented sector is always evolving, so these courses are a great way to keep up to date with best practice and new legislation.”

By law, landlords and letting agents who take deposits from tenants must protect them in a government-backed deposit protection scheme like SafeDeposits Scotland. Landlords who fail to do so can face a fine of up to three times the value of the deposit if the tenant launches a case with the First-tier Tribunal.

To book a free place at the event, please email events@safedepositsscotland.com.

Spaces are limited and will be offered on a first come, first served basis, interested parties are encouraged to get in touch as quickly as possible.