Landlord Eviction Ban
The landlord eviction ban in Scotland was introduced on 7th April 2020 and has been extended multiple times since then. The current eviction ban is in place until at least 31st March 2022. Under the current rules, landlords cannot evict tenants from their properties except in certain circumstances, such as if the tenant has engaged in anti-social behavior or if the landlord wants to sell the property.
It is important to note that tenants who are in rent arrears are still protected by the eviction ban. Landlords cannot evict tenants who are in rent arrears due to COVID-19 related financial difficulties.
Rent Cap
In addition to the eviction ban, the Scottish government has also introduced a rent cap. This means that landlords cannot increase rent by more than 1.5% annually in designated rent pressure zones. Rent pressure zones are areas where rents are rising rapidly and causing affordability issues for tenants.
Landlords who wish to increase rent above the 1.5% limit must apply to a rent officer for permission to do so. The rent officer will consider a range of factors, such as the condition of the property and the local rental market, before making a decision.
Impact on Landlords and Tenants
The new rules have a significant impact on both landlords and tenants in Scotland. Landlords may find it more difficult to evict tenants, particularly those who are in rent arrears due to COVID-19 related financial difficulties. Additionally, landlords in rent pressure zones may find it more difficult to increase rent.
On the other hand, tenants who are struggling to pay rent due to the pandemic can take comfort in knowing that they are protected by the eviction ban. The rent cap also provides tenants with some measure of protection against exorbitant rent increases.
Conclusion
The new rules regarding landlord eviction ban and rent cap in Scotland are intended to protect tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic. While these rules may make it more difficult for landlords to evict tenants or increase rent, they also provide tenants with much-needed protection during a challenging time. As such, it is important for landlords and tenants to familiarize themselves with these new rules and ensure that they are complying with them.
FAQs
- Can landlords still evict tenants in Scotland?
- Landlords can only evict tenants in certain circumstances, such as if the tenant has engaged in anti-social behavior or if the landlord wants to sell the property. The current eviction ban is in place until at least 31st March 2022.
- What is a rent pressure zone?
- A rent pressure zone is an area where rents are rising rapidly and causing affordability issues for tenants.
- Can landlords increase rent in Scotland?
- Landlords can increase rent by no more than 1.5% annually in designated rent pressure zones. Landlords who wish to increase rent above this limit must apply to a rent officer for permission to do so.