Ahead of the legislative deadline, MSPs have tabled a range of amendments to the Housing (Scotland) Bill, aimed at strengthening protections for tenants and improving consistency in the private rented sector.
Key proposed changes include:
A National Strategy for the Private Rented Sector, led by Scottish Ministers
Removal of between-tenancy rent controls
Mandatory impact assessments for rural and island communities
Removal of the Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) for buy-to-let properties
Measures to ensure consistency in rent control area applications and reporting by local authorities
The Scottish Government has also submitted its own amendments, including:
A rent cap formula of CPI + 1% (up to a maximum of 6%) in designated rent control areas
A revised deadline for the first rent conditions report: 31 May 2027
Extended review period for tenants in non-rent-controlled areas: from 21 to 30 days
Reduced qualifying period for succession: from 12 to 6 months (Private and Social sectors)
Requirement for joint tenants to notify co-tenants when serving notice to end a tenancy
In addition, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing Awaab’s Law in the private sector, ensuring landlords are held accountable for addressing dangerous living conditions such as damp and mould within specific timeframes.
These proposals mark a significant shift in Scotland’s approach to housing, with a strong focus on tenant protection, affordability, and local accountability.
Stay tuned for updates as the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee continues to review the Bill.
