For immediate release;

Rent caps could soon be introduced in Scotland under new proposals by the Scottish Government.

MSPs are scrutinising the Housing (Scotland) Bill which, if voted for by Parliament, could protect tenants by capping increases on their rent.

The Scottish Government’s proposals would limit rent increases to the Consumer Price Index – which is a measure of inflation – plus 1%, up to a maximum increase of 6%.  This would allow rent caps in areas where controls apply, and stop landlords from hiking rents excessively.  

If approved by Parliament, the rent cap will apply to rent increases both during a tenancy, and crucially, in between tenancies as well.

The proposal is part of the Scottish Government’s wider New Deal for Tenants, which aims to strengthen tenants’ rights – including the right to keep pets, decorate homes, to have better protections against eviction, and greater support for survivors of domestic abuse.

Commenting, Clare Haughey said;

“Eradicating child poverty remain the Scottish Government’s priority, and access to secure, affordable housing that meets their needs makes a direct contribution to this aim.

“Everyone deserves a safe, warm home that gives them security and peace of mind – and this move, if voted for by MSP, would give tenants the protections that they deserve.  

“Linking rent caps to inflation allows costs to landlords to be reflected, while offering protection to tenants by limiting more significant rent increases.  

“As the cap will only apply in areas where rent controls apply, I will be following this up with South Lanarkshire Council, should the Bill become law, to see how Rutherglen and Cambuslang residents could benefit from these rental protections.”

ENDS