Politician wants tenants to go on rent strike until repairs done

Green Party MSP Ariane Burgess has proposed an amendment to the Housing (Scotland) Bill allowing renters to withhold rent payments if landlords fail to address serious repairs within 30 days of notification. The aim is to ensure issues like damp, mould, broken flooring, and heating systems are resolved promptly, maintaining safe living standards.

The amendment seeks to balance the tribunal process, requiring landlords acting in bad faith to prove efforts to resolve issues before accessing withheld rent. Burgess emphasizes that this measure would empower renters to demand vital repairs without the stress of lengthy tribunal proceedings. While many landlords maintain their properties well, the proposal targets those who neglect their responsibilities, aiming to improve renters’ living conditions and hold landlords accountable.