Extension announced to rent freeze timeframe

TENANTS in the private rented sector are expected to be further protected from rent increases until at least the end of March next year.

Says a Scottish Government announcement, here, what began as an ’emergency’ rent freeze – in light of the relatively recent ‘cost-of-living crisis’ – looks set to be extended.

Begins the announcement: “Tenants’ Rights Minister, Patrick Harvie, has confirmed proposals to keep the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act measures in place until March 31 2024 at the latest. This would mean:

• Most in-tenancy private rent increases would continue to be capped at three per cent;
• Alternatively, private landlords could apply for increases of up to six per cent to help cover certain increases in costs in a specified time period where these costs can be evidenced;
• Enforcement of evictions would continue to be paused for six months for most tenants, except in a number of specified circumstances; and
• Increased damages for unlawful evictions of up to 36 months’ worth of rent would continue to be applicable.”

The announcement adds: “Social rented sector tenants are protected by the voluntary agreement reached with social landlords on below-inflation rent increases for this financial year.”

Pictured: On the River Clyde, Glasgow, Picture credit: Place Design Scotland

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