Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

Written Question · S6W-03873 · Session 6

What consideration it has given to introducing legislation similar to the Access to Neighbouring Land Act 1992, particularly in relation to…

Answered Asked by Stuart McMillan SNP Lodged 20 Oct 2021

The question

To ask the Scottish Government what consideration it has given to introducing legislation similar to the Access to Neighbouring Land Act 1992, particularly in relation to allowing homeowners temporary access to neighbouring land to carry out repairs or maintenance to their property.

The answer

Answered by Ash Regan on 29 Oct 2021 · 9 days after it was lodged, on time

The Scottish Government has no current plans to change the legislation in this area.
In relation to flatted properties, section 17 of the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 gives homeowners reasonable access for maintenance and other purposes through the property of other owners. Section 17 may be viewed at:-
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2004/11/contents
There is no equivalent legislation for non-flatted properties. In some cases, title deeds, servitude rights over neighbouring land or the common law may provide the necessary access rights. Access to neighbouring land might also be permitted by way of a private arrangement between individuals. Where parties are in dispute, mediation can sometimes provide assistance.
If however, the member has evidence that a change in the law would be helpful, I would be happy to consider the issue further.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S6W-03873 by reference.