Law to modernise private rented sector passed

A new law intended to modernise the private rented sector has been passed by the Scottish Parliament.

According to the Scottish government, the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Bill will create simpler tenancies, offer stability and security to the 700,000 tenants who call the private rented sector home, and ensure predictability over rent increases.

Key measures contained in the bill include:

In an announcement made to Parliament, housing minister Margaret Burgess also confirmed the Scottish government’s intention that no fees will be charged for anyone taking a case to the Housing and Property Tribunal.

The minister marked stage three of the bill by visiting Fife Keyfund this morning, which works to place those at risk of homelessness into stable private tenancies.

Mrs Burgess said: “This bill ensures the end of a process in this parliamentary term that started with the publication of PRS Strategy in 2013, has included regulating letting agents and now culminates in this bill.

“These significant changes will transform the private rented sector, creating a more modern tenancy, bring stability to the sector and helping to meet Scotland’s housing needs.

“We are committed to achieving a sustainable, long-term solution to addressing housing need and affordability. Both landlords and tenants have told us this new law will mean a modern and fit-for-purpose sector.

“Its range of measures will ensure the sector is better managed, simplified and successful for all in the private rented sector. I am delighted that this bill has now passed with cross party support.”

Jon Sparkes, chief executive of Crisis, said: “This bill will mean private tenants can feel much more secure about creating a home for themselves, particularly with the end of so-called ‘no fault eviction’. The private rented sector is growing in Scotland and these measures mean Scotland is again taking the lead in protecting people from the devastating effects of homelessness.

“Making sure access to the tribunal is free for tenants will also help more vulnerable tenants be able to access their legal rights if and when they need to.”

John Blackwood, chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords, said: “We are pleased that the long process of considering and passing this bill has been completed. Landlords and letting agents can now look forward to continuing to promote the importance of the private rented sector in providing high quality housing across the country.”