SAL member social media policy

 
Purpose

This social media policy outlines the standards and expectations for all members of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) when posting or commenting on social media platforms. The purpose of this policy is to maintain respectful, professional, and constructive engagement while protecting the reputation of SAL, its members, and the wider private rented sector in Scotland.

  1. Scope

This policy applies to all SAL members, including landlords, letting agents, associates, SAL members of staff and anyone participating in SAL-branded online spaces (e.g., Facebook groups, forums, and comment threads) or referencing SAL in their own social media activity.

  1. Professional and respectful conduct

Members must:

  • Communicate respectfully with other members, tenants, public bodies, and the general public at all times.
  • Avoid personal attacks, insults, hostility, or inflammatory comments.
  • Use professional and appropriate language, acknowledging that SAL social media spaces are professional forums.
  1. Confidentiality and data protection

Members must not:

  • Share personal information about tenants, applicants, or staff.
  • Post private case details, ongoing disputes, or identifiable information relating to any individual.
  • Share SAL’s internal documents, member-only materials, or advice without permission.

Members should maintain full compliance with data protection legislation, including GDPR and UK data protection law.

  1. Accuracy and responsible use of information

Members should:

  • Ensure information shared is accurate, current, and based on reliable sources.
  • Avoid spreading misinformation about regulations, government policies, or landlord/agent responsibilities.
  • Clarify when they are unsure about legal matters rather than offering unverified advice.

SAL’s own guidance and official channels should be referred to for authoritative information.

  1. Prohibited content

The following are strictly prohibited in SAL social media spaces:

  • Discriminatory, racist, sexist, or otherwise offensive comments.
  • Harassment, bullying, intimidation, or threatening behaviour.
  • Content that encourages illegal activity or non-compliance with housing law.
  • Posts likely to damage SAL’s reputation or the reputation of the private rented sector.
  • Obscene, overly graphic, or inappropriate material.
  1. Representing SAL

Members must:

  • Not claim to speak on behalf of SAL unless explicitly authorised.
  • Make it clear when expressing personal views that they do not represent the official position of SAL.
  • Avoid using SAL branding, logos, or official resources without permission.
  1. Discussion of legal or tenancy matters

Members may seek general guidance, but:

  • Should not disclose tenant names, addresses, or any other identifiable details.
  • Must avoid giving or requesting specific legal advice that could compromise a case.
  • Should refrain from criticising tenants, government officials, or regulators in a personal or defamatory manner.

Members should be mindful that social media posts may be publicly visible and can be used in legal or regulatory proceedings.

  1. Good practice for posting

Members are encouraged to:

  • Think carefully before posting, particularly when discussing sensitive issues such as arrears, evictions, or disputes.
  • Remain calm and professional, especially when disagreeing with others.
  • Contribute constructively by sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practice.
  1. Moderation and compliance

SAL reserves the right to:

  • Remove posts that breach this policy.
  • Provide warnings to members regarding inappropriate behaviour.
  • Temporarily or permanently restrict access to SAL social media communities.
  • Terminate membership in serious or repeated cases of misconduct.

Decisions made by SAL moderators or administrators regarding social media conduct are final.

  1. Reporting concerns

Members who observe a breach of this policy should report it to SAL staff or social media moderators. All reports will be treated confidentially and reviewed promptly. 

 Contact information for all enquiries:

Scottish Association of Landlords
Hopetoun Gate
8b McDonald Road
Edinburgh
EH7 4LZ

Email: info@scottishlandlords.com
Phone: 0131 564 0100
Website: www.scottishlandlords.com