The Scottish Government has introduced the Scottish Housing Bill, a wide-reaching piece of legislation designed to improve housing standards, strengthen tenants’ rights, and address affordability across Scotland. For landlords in the private rented sector (PRS), this Bill marks one of the most significant shifts in housing law in recent years.
Here, we break down the key proposals, what they mean for landlords, and how letting agents can help you stay compliant and navigate the changes.
Key proposals within the Scottish Housing Bill
The Bill is expected to come into force gradually from late 2025 into 2026, subject to the legislative process. It aims to create a fairer and more secure housing system, and includes:
- Rent control framework A new national framework will allow rent control areas to be designated where affordability pressures are high. Local authorities will have the power to propose rent caps.
- Rent adjudication rights Tenants will be able to challenge rent increases mid-tenancy, not just at renewal. This puts pressure on landlords to justify rent levels with evidence of market value and property condition.
- Longer notice periods For certain grounds of eviction, such as rent arrears or landlord intention to sell, notice periods may be extended to give tenants more security.
- Eviction protections Enhanced protection for tenants during winter months and in cases of low-level rent arrears.
- Homelessness prevention duties Local councils will take a more proactive role in preventing homelessness, which could involve earlier interventions for tenants at risk.
What this means for landlords
These proposals represent a shift toward a more regulated rental market. For landlords, the implications are significant:
- You may no longer have full flexibility over rent increases, especially in pressure zones.
- Evictions could take longer and require more evidence.
- Tenants will have stronger grounds to challenge rent levels and eviction notices.
In short, compliance will become more complex and time-consuming. Failing to keep up with changes could lead to legal challenges or financial penalties.
Steps landlords should take now
- Stay informed: Keep up with the Bill’s progress through government and industry updates.
- Review your current tenancies: Make sure all tenancy agreements, notices, and procedures are legally up to date.
- Document everything: Ensure all communication, rent reviews, and maintenance are recorded.
- Be transparent with tenants: Open communication builds trust and reduces disputes.
- Prepare for rent control: Review your rent levels now and understand your local authority’s position on affordability.
How letting agents can help
Working with a professional, locally based letting agent can offer significant benefits in a shifting legal landscape:
- Regulatory knowledge: Professional agents stay up to date with legislation and can ensure your tenancies remain compliant.
- Notice management: Properly serving notices under new rules will require precision and understanding of timelines.
- Rent reviews and evidence: We help gather the right documentation to support rent increases or defend them against challenges.
- Tenant relations: Clear, professional communication through an agent often leads to better outcomes.
At brikk, we’re already helping landlords across Fife and Dundee prepare for what’s ahead. If you’re unsure how the Scottish Housing Bill might affect you, get in touch, we’ll walk you through it.
In summary
The Scottish Housing Bill is set to reshape the private rental sector. Landlords who take proactive steps now and work with experienced letting agents will be better placed to adapt and thrive under the new rules.
Need help navigating the changes? We’re here to support you every step of the way.