Scottish housing minister Kevin Stewart is writing to all letting agents to warn them that the clock is ticking towards the implementation of a mandatory new regime.

All agents in Scotland must comply with a statutory new code of practice in six months’ time.

From January 31 next year, it will be compulsory to belong to a new register of letting agents, with key individuals in each agency having to meet a minimum level of training.

It will also be compulsory for agents to have both Client Money Protection and Professional Indemnity insurance.

Landlords and tenants can use the code to challenge poor practice through the new First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).

Stewart said: “We are committed to ensuring the highest quality private rented sector, which empowers tenants. Our framework for regulation, and the need for the sector to meet key standards and expectations through the code, is an important step in achieving our ambitions.

“Many letting agents already do a great deal to continuously improve standards and inspire confidence amongst landlords and tenants. The introduction of the code means a level playing field for all and ensures clarity on rights, responsibilities and expectations.

“For many people private renting provides a place to call home, and they deserve the necessary standards and protections to find and keep that home. With six months until the code comes into force, letting agents must take steps now to be ready for these new ways of working.”

In England, successive housing ministers have refused to consider the idea of letting agents being registered and meeting minimum standards. However, in Wales, all letting agents have to be licensed and trained to recognised minimum standards.