Rent freeze extension in Scotland explained as rises after April capped and eviction ban to remain

21.01.2023 - 00:49 / dailyrecord.co.uk

The measures brought in to protect tenants through the cost of loving crisis are being extended until September 30, 2023, it has been confirmed.

However, while measures will still be in place after April there will be some changes as landlords will now be able to raise rent by a small amount. The 'emergency' legislation was brought in to help tenants who were impacted by rising energy bills and inflation.

The rules, as before, will apply to tenants living in both private and social rented accommodation however the rent cap for student accommodation is due to be suspended.

For those unsure what has changed and what has not, here is everything you need to know about the updated measures.

Full rent freeze is no longer in place as landlords will now be able to raise rent by three percent. They can only do this once between now and September 30 under the current restrictions.

The rent cap for student accommodation, however, will be suspended as it has limited impact on annual rents set on the basis of an academic year

A ban on evictions is still in place with the exception of certain situations such as a private landlord needing to sell due to financial hardship or a tenant engaging in antisocial or criminal behaviour.

Tenants Rights’ Minister Patrick Harvie said: "Our emergency legislation has helped protect tenants facing the cost of living crisis. With many households still struggling with bills, it is clear that these protections are still needed to give tenants greater confidence about their housing costs and the security of a stable home.

"While the primary purpose of the legislation is to support tenants, I recognise that costs have been rising for landlords too. That’s why we intend to allow those in the private sector to