Private Sector Housing

Private Rented Housing

The size and nature of Shetland’s private rented housing market

There are nearly 700 privately rented properties all over Shetland. The landlord register, advice to landlords and concerns from tenants such as disrepair etc. are managed by Environmental Health

 They can be contacted by calling 01595 745250 or e-mail ehadmin@shetland.gov.uk or privaterenting@shetland.gov.uk.

As Shetland is also a tourist destination, there are also around 300+ properties available as short-term lets.  From 1 October 2022 a licencing scheme was opened for short-term lets.  All short-term lets must be licenced by 1 April 2024.  Licencing of short-term ets is also administered by Environmental Health on 01595 745250 or email stl@shetland.gov.uk.

How to find out about private rented accommodation in Shetland

  • Visit Facebook (Shetland Accommodation and Shetland Classifieds etc.) Landlords post properties for let and you can post a request for accommodation. All legitimate adverts for private renting MUST have the landlord registration number and Energy Performance rating (EPC) listed.
  • Look out for adverts on public notice boards in Lerwick supermarkets and local shops and post offices.  As above all legitimate adverts MUST have the landlord registration number and EPC rating.
  • There are two registered letting agents in Shetland https://arthurandsimpson.com/ and www.shetlandpropertylets.com/.
  • Lerwick's Visit Scotland icentre can give you details of summer holiday lets– you could contact owners of self-catering accommodation to explore the possibility of winter or longer term lets.
  • Ask around, particularly in the country areas where some private renting opportunities may be 'advertised' by word of mouth.
  • All residential landlords MUST be registered (you can check here: https://www.landlordregistrationscotland.gov.uk/  As above all legitimate adverts MUST have the landlord registration number and EPC rating listed.
  • Take a look at the adverts in the Additional Links in the box on the right above. You could also put an advert in yourself.
  • Advertise that you are looking for accommodation.