Cowboy landlords counting down the days as rent controls to expire – Greens

Rogue landlords are “counting down the days” to the expiry of rent controls, the Scottish Greens have claimed.

The Scottish Government announced earlier this year that the temporary rent increase cap – which effectively limited rises to 12% – will be scrapped on April 1.

The change means renters could be exposed to significant increases until the Housing (Scotland) Bill is passed, allowing councils to impose rent control zones.

In such areas, rent increases would be capped at the rate of inflation plus 1%.

Speaking with just weeks before the protections end, Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman said: “Unless the SNP acts, cowboy landlords will be counting down the days until April 1.

“The housing market is broken. We need more and better regulations if we are to tackle the rising cost of housing, not fewer.

“Landlords already hold far too much power over renters, many of whom are struggling to pay their bills and keep a safe, secure roof over their heads.

“The rental market already leaves far too many renters in insecure housing which can cost them over half their pay cheque.

“Only the Scottish Greens are standing up for rent controls that actually cut costs and make rents more affordable.”

Homes should be for living in, not for profiteering

Speaking ahead of the second stage of the housing Bill, the Green MSP urged politicians to ensure “strong and permanent protections” are passed.

“We’ve been listening to renters, and know that they can’t rely on some so-called good-natured landlords,” she added.

“This is our opportunity to put power back in people’s hands and guarantee quality, affordable housing. Because homes should be for living in, not for profiteering.”

Housing minister Paul McLennan said: “From 1 April, protections continue to be in place against rent increases above market rent for most private tenants and we would encourage tenants to make use of their right to a review of a rent increase.

“We know that there is a need for longer term action on rents to ensure a fairer system for tenants – that is why we are taking forward measures in the Housing Bill to support the introduction of longer-term rent control where this is needed.”