Fair Rents (Scotland) Bill

# Fair Rents (Scotland) Bill The Fair Rents (Scotland) Bill addresses concerns about rental affordability and the balance of power between landlords and tenants in Scotland's private rented sector. Rising rents have made housing increasingly unaffordable for many Scottish households, whilst tenants have limited protection against unreasonable rent increases during and between tenancies. The bill responds to calls for stronger regulation of rent levels to protect vulnerable renters and ensure housing remains accessible across different income levels. The bill's main mechanism introduces a system of rent controls, restricting the amount by which landlords can increase rents and establishing processes for determining what constitutes a "fair rent." Key provisions would likely include limits on rent rises during fixed-term tenancies, controls on increases when tenancies are renewed, and potentially mechanisms for tenants to challenge rents they consider excessive. The bill seeks to provide greater security for renters whilst maintaining a functioning private rental market. As a Member's Bill, its passage would depend on securing sufficient support within the Scottish Parliament and government backing to progress through the legislative process.

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