Across Scotland, rents are through the roof - and it’s only getting worse. The Scottish Government promised long-term rent controls. However, it is now buckling under the immense lobbying of landlords and investors. The government is consulting on changes that would create loopholes and exemptions for landlords to exploit.
Under proposed rent controls, landlords would be able to raise rents above inflation. Now they want the right to raise them even higher. This is nothing but greed.
By endorsing our petition, you consent to Living Rent submitting a response on your behalf along the lines of the petition demands below. You can also submit your own response on the government's website.
Overall, we believe that:
Scotland’s tenants need permanent and universal rent controls. We need a system that is rigorous and consistent.
No exemptions - rent controls must cover all rented housing, including so-called “mid-market rent” and build-to-rent developments. Exemptions will create uncertainty, instability and multi-tiered rights for tenants
No rewards for the bare minimum - rather than exempting landlords from rent caps when making basic repairs or improvements, we must impose stricter penalties on those refusing to improve their homes: sticks - not carrots.
No incentivising ‘market rent’ - rents are unaffordable. The goal is to bring them down - not push all rents up.
Clear definitions - “Mid-market Rent” must not include anything charging more than Local Housing Allowance, “Build-to-Rent” must be classed the same as other rented housing after, at most, 3 years and quality improvements must be tied to tenants saving money.