Current status: Answered by Paul McLennan on 10 July 2024
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide clarity for investors by publishing, by the end of 2024, any proposed exemptions to the rent controls contained in the Housing (Scotland) Bill.
The Scottish Government recognises the importance of investment in housing to underpin quality, supply and affordability in the private rented sector, and is very clear that continuing to attract private investment is a priority to maintain the vital supply of new homes for rent that our communities need. We want to see a fair, well-managed private rented sector in which investment in quality rented homes for tenants is both viable and welcome.
Given the diversity of rent conditions across Scotland, our Housing Bill allows flexibility for local circumstance to be the guiding factor in applying rent control measures. We recognize this needs to be balanced by certainty where possible.
We are considering the information shared by stakeholders on how to support investor confidence, as we look to ensure that the rent control measures in the Housing (Scotland) Bill support investment in a quality, affordable and thriving PRS.
Ministers will continue to listen to parliamentary and stakeholder views.