Stage 2 amendments to the Housing (Scotland) Bill published. Key changes to rent control area provisions and the scope of the deposit scheme review committee.
The Scottish Parliament has published Stage 2 amendments to the Housing (Scotland) Bill. The principal changes affect the rent control area provisions: the amended text broadens the criteria by which Scottish Ministers may designate a rent control area and extends the duration of initial rent control area designations from two to three years.
The amendments also widen the scope and membership of the Deposit Scheme Review Committee, granting it additional powers to examine scheme administration and fee structures. A new provision requires the committee to report at two-year intervals rather than the originally proposed three.
Landlords with properties in Scotland, including cross-border portfolio landlords, should monitor the Bill's progress through Stage 3. Designation of rent control areas could materially affect rent-setting decisions. Landlord Insights will cover Stage 3 proceedings as they are scheduled.
Action required
Monitor Stage 3 proceedings. Designation of rent control areas could materially affect rent-setting decisions for Scottish properties.
Effective
Stage 2 · Bill in progress · Royal Assent date TBC
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