Landlords can’t keep up with endless legal changes

A survey by SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust finds that over a fifth (21%) of private landlords in Scotland struggle to keep up with legal changes in the rental sector, while just over half (51%) say they can. Many landlords (39%) feel that these changes are not clearly communicated.

The findings come as the Scottish Parliament continues discussions on the Housing (Scotland) Bill, which aims to reform the rental market. Tenant awareness of the bill is also low, with only 19% of private renters having heard of and understood it.

Dr Jennifer Harris, head of policy at the trust, stresses the need for better communication so both landlords and tenants fully grasp their legal rights and responsibilities. She calls for improvements in how legal changes are conveyed to ensure compliance and a healthier rental market.