Scottish Labour pushes for stricter tenant protections

Scottish Labour pushes for stricter tenant protections

0:02 AM, 20th June 2024, About 6 months ago

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Scottish Labour will improve tenants’ rights by protecting them from unaffordable rent increases and unscrupulous landlords.

In its manifesto dubbed change, Scottish Labour claims more proposals are needed to drive up standards in PRS homes in Scotland.

The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) say rent controls are not the answer to the housing crisis.

Tenants should be protected from unaffordable rents

The Scottish Labour Manifesto says too many people are trapped in the private rented sector.

The manifesto says: “Too many Scots are stuck in the private rented sector, unable to save up deposits or access social housing.

“Tenants should be protected from unaffordable rents and unscrupulous landlords, but rent regulations must be practical, workable, and reflect the intent of legislators.

“Scottish Labour also supports proposals to drive up standards in the rented sector in Scotland, improving the rights of tenants to make their house a proper home.”

Investors are leaving the sector

However, the Scottish Association of Landlords say rent controls will harm the private rented sector and is calling for more investment in the sector.

John Blackwood, chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), said: “We do not agree with the principle of rent control and believe this will further harm investment in the PRS, already damaged by ineffective short-term policy decisions and dangerous rhetoric.

“Today I was giving evidence in the Scottish Parliament and along with other PRS housing stakeholders, we pointed out the unintended consequences of rent control measures and how investors are leaving the sector and no longer see Scotland as an attractive investment option.

“We look forward to working with the Housing Minister, ensuring that any measures that are brought in are proportionate and do not deter much needed investment in homes to rent in Scotland.”


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