Yesterday Tenant's Rights Minister Patrick Harvie MSP confirmed, as expected, that the current rent freeze and eviction moratorium will be extended for another 6 months from 1 April 2023. Protections for tenants extended - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
There are however some important changes
- The 0% cap on rent increases for private tenancies has been increased to 3%
- The limited help for landlords to increase rents to cover their cost inflation has been increased by 3% to an overall cap of 6%. See our November 2022 article which explains which costs can be included Rent freeze - some limited scope for rent increases - Inchdairnie (standrewsletting.com)
- The cap on rent increases for PBSA has been suspended
- The rent freeze provisions for social rented accommodation are being suspended on the basis that the Scottish Government has reached separate agreement with landlords for below inflation increases
It is intended that these measures be extended to 30 September 2023, with the option to extend for another 6 month period if required. It is worth noting however that the Minister has indicated that the current extension of the emergency measures to 30 September 2023 is "provided they remain necessary".
It is recognised by the Minister that costs have also been rising for landlords and that the Government will work with tenants and landlords to protect them from the current cost crisis - a more balanced approach from the Minister will be welcomed by landlords.
Please don't hesitate to contact us if you would like any more information or have any concerns about how the legislation is affecting you - Contact us - Property Lettings - Inchdairnie (standrewsletting.com)