Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Team from a report by Property118. Read the original article for full details.
New Scottish Housing Secretary Urged to Support Private Rented Sector
The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) has welcomed Shirley-Anne Somerville as the new Cabinet Secretary for Housing following the recent Scottish Parliament election. SAL highlighted the importance of her appointment for Scotland’s private rented sector (PRS) and emphasised the need for constructive engagement between government and industry stakeholders.
SAL acknowledged the work of outgoing Cabinet Secretary Mairi McAllan, noting her efforts to rebuild trust between the Scottish Government and the PRS. According to SAL, McAllan made meaningful progress towards resetting the relationship between landlords and government, a process they believe Somerville should continue.
The association stressed that Scotland is facing a housing crisis and called for collaboration among government, local authorities, housing associations, developers, investors, tenants, and landlords. SAL stated there is broad political agreement on the need for more housing, including homes for purchase, social housing, and properties available for rent.
SAL pointed out that a significant number of landlords have left the sector in recent years, resulting in fewer homes available to rent and increased competition among tenants. The association warned that policies which discourage investment or drive landlords out of the market ultimately reduce the supply of homes for tenants.
SAL’s stated ambition is to see a thriving, professional PRS that benefits both landlords and tenants, with high standards, stable tenancies, and a healthy supply of homes. The association called for moving beyond adversarial narratives and recognised the interdependent relationship between landlords and tenants.
Source: Property118