Kevin Fraser

The firm is concerned that many landlords may not appreciate the significance of the changes outlined in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, which has now received its Royal Assent.

The Housing (Scotland) Act is due to be phased in over a number of years with local authority assessments of rent conditions in each area of Scotland to be presented to the Scottish Government by 31 May 2027. Following these assessments and further regulations ministers can designate specific areas for rent control which are anticipated to come into effect by mid to late 2027 or early 2028.

Kevin Fraser, managing director of DJ Alexander Scotland, said: “While the timescale for implementation of the Housing (Scotland) Act may seem some way off it is essential for landlords to ensure that they are prepared now for the implications it will have on their business.

“This is a major piece of legislation that impacts the legal, regulatory, and financial operation of the private rented sector (PRS) and landlords need to be aware that their business will be affected.

“Landlords must ensure that they know precisely how this legislation will affect their ability to operate, their profitability, and their relationship with the regulatory bodies and with their tenants. With the majority of landlords in Scotland operating between one and five properties it can be difficult to find the time to understand fully the implications of changing legislation.”

Mr Fraser continued: “This Act will potentially limit the amount landlords can raise rent; it may force landlords to allow tenants to make alterations to properties and to have pets; and it has the potential to have a serious impact on the viability and profitability of homes in the letting sector. But there are solutions to ensure that landlords can continue to operate a successful letting business with the right information and advice.

“Renting properties has never been more complex, and the sector has faced unprecedented change over the last decade. Landlords understand the need to keep ahead of these changes to ensure their business is compliant and profitable.

“The introduction of this Act has prompted DJ Alexander to put on two free landlord events in Edinburgh on 26th November and Aberdeen on 27th November to provide a full range of accountancy, financial, legal and property advice to ensure that landlords can confidently and assuredly face up to the challenges posed by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 and be ready for its implementation in the coming years.

“I look forward to personally welcoming everyone interested in finding out more about how this Act will impact upon their business and the wider private rented sector.”