How long do I have to bring a consumer claim in Scotland?
Usually 5 years, generally counted from when you became aware, or could reasonably have become aware, of the problem, under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973.
Be Wise › Consumer Wise guides › By nation
Consumer rights in Scotland: time limits, simple procedure and help
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies in Scotland as it does in the rest of the UK. What is different is the time limit, which is shorter and usually runs from when you became aware of the problem, and the court process: simple procedure in the sheriff court for claims up to £5,000.
How long you have to claim
Under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973, most consumer claims must be made within 5 years. The clock usually starts when you became aware, or could reasonably have become aware, of the problem, rather than on the date you bought the goods. That is a year shorter than in the rest of the UK, and a different starting point. If you are close to the deadline, get advice promptly.
Simple procedure
Claims with a value of £5,000 or less are raised under simple procedure in the sheriff court. It is designed to be quick, inexpensive and informal, and you do not need a solicitor. Claims above £5,000 go through ordinary cause procedure, where legal advice is recommended.
Free advice
Advice Direct Scotland runs consumeradvice.scot, the free consumer advice service for Scotland, on 0808 800 9060.
Quick answers
Why is Scotland's time limit different?
Scots law has its own rules on prescription. The period is 5 years rather than 6, and it usually starts from when you became aware of the problem rather than from the date of the sale.
What is the small claims limit in Scotland?
Simple procedure in the sheriff court covers claims of £5,000 or less. You do not need a solicitor to use it.
Who do I contact for free consumer advice in Scotland?
Advice Direct Scotland, through consumeradvice.scot or on 0808 800 9060.
Official sources
- Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973, section 6
- Courts Reform (Scotland) Act 2014, section 72: simple procedure
- Advice Direct Scotland: consumeradvice.scot
- Chartered Trading Standards Institute: consumer help
- Consumer Rights Act 2015 (legislation.gov.uk)
Check your own situation
The Be Consumer Wise app walks you through what you bought, how you paid and what went wrong, shows the right helpline for your part of the UK, and lets you ask ConsumerBot follow-up questions.
Open Be Consumer WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General legal information about UK consumer rights, not legal advice.