Most tenants who face problems with their landlord or letting agent in Scotland are failing to seek redress, research from SafeDeposits Scotland has revealed.
Just 4% said they took their complaint to the tribunal, with 9% appealing to their local council.
Common complaints include issues with mould and plumbing.
Dr Jennifer Harris, head of policy at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “Decent, safe housing should be the bedrock of the private rented sector.
“The vast majority of landlords and agents are responding positively where problems arise. However, it is worrying that so many tenants do not know where to turn when landlords fail to properly address their concerns.
“Tenants need to be empowered to challenge bad practice in the sector. This can only be achieved by ensuring they fully understand where to take complaints to when they have them. More needs to be done to ensure they have this vital information.”
Some 61% of tenants had experienced problems with the quality of the homes they rented, while complaints were partially or fully addressed by their landlord or letting agent.
The top five issues experienced by those who encountered problems included leaks or problems with plumbing (23%), difficulties keeping their home warm (19%), repairs not being carried out (16%), outside doors, walls, roofs or windows being in need of repair (16%) and serious problems with damp or mould (13%).
