The short-term rent cap in Scotland that was put in place to help tenants cope with the cost-of-living crisis will come to an end on 31st March.

David J Alexander, CEO of DJ Alexander Scotland Ltd (pictured), says: “The announcement by Scottish Housing Minister, Paul MacLennan, that the current rent control legislation is to be ended is welcome news.”

March ending

McLennan, however, told the Herald newspaper: “We know that there is a need for longer-term action on rents, which is why we are taking forward measures in the Bill to support the introduction of longer-term rent control where this is needed.”

As reported by The Neg, the Scottish Government is now consulting on a new cap, which will form part of the upcoming Housing (Scotland) Bill and will come into effect in 2027.

Everybody involved in the private rented sector (PRS) has been frustrated at the uncertainty.”

Alexander commented: “Everybody involved in the private rented sector (PRS) has been frustrated at the uncertainty of the Scottish Government’s policy on rent controls.

“But this announcement, coupled with a proposed consultation including consideration of how new housing built specifically for private rent – including in mid-market rent and other purpose-built private rented accommodation – should be treated is to be welcomed”.

It means that open market rent setting will be the norm once again, at least until the new Housing (Scotland) Bill comes into effect in 2027.

Alexander concluded: “This is a very positive development and is a clear sign that the Scottish Government is listening to the private rented sector and going some way to encourage growth to ensure landlords and investors can be more certain of the viability of their investment and tenants can be comforted at the prospect of a substantial increase in the supply of homes to rent.”