Lettings in Scotland Are Evolving

A Clear Timeline for Landlords Under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025

The lettings landscape in Scotland continues to evolve, and the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 is the next stage in that journey.

With key dates now confirmed, there is greater clarity on what will change and when. Whilst headlines often focus on reform, the reality is more measured. Most of these changes will be introduced gradually, giving landlords the opportunity to understand what is required and plan ahead with confidence.

April 2026 - Laying the Foundations for Rent Control
From 1st April 2026, the framework for rent control will be introduced.   This is an important step, although it does not mean immediate restrictions on rents. Instead, it begins with local authorities assessing rental conditions in their areas, with these assessments due to be completed by May 2027.  These findings will then inform whether rent control areas are introduced in the future.

For now, landlords can continue to:

• Set rents in line with the market at the start of a tenancy
• Review rents during a tenancy in line with current regulations
• This stage is very much about gathering evidence rather than implementing change.

October 2026 - Greater Clarity Around Ending a Tenancy
From 6th October 2026, there will be changes to wrongful termination orders.  If a tenant believes they have been asked to leave under an eviction ground that does not genuinely apply, they may apply to the tribunal. Where this is upheld, the level of compensation available will increase.  The range will move from up to 6 months’ rent to between 3 and 36 months’ rent.
In practice, these cases remain relatively uncommon and are typically only applied where there has been a clear misuse of grounds. A well managed tenancy, with clear reasoning and proper process, will rarely encounter this issue.
There will also be a change to succession rights. The qualifying period for a partner, family member or carer living in the property will reduce from 12 months to 6 months. This is not something most landlords encounter often, but it is an important detail to be aware of.

April 2027 - Changes to Rent Reviews and Joint Tenancies
From 1st April 2027, further changes will come into effect.

• Rent Reviews
  If a rent increase is referred for review, a rent officer will continue to assess market value.
  However, they will no longer be able to set a rent higher than the figure originally proposed by the landlord.
  This provides greater certainty when setting rents and reinforces the importance of careful pricing from the outset.
• Joint Tenancies
  The process for ending a joint tenancy will also change. One tenant will be able to give notice to end the tenancy on behalf of all tenants.
  This is a notable shift from the current position, where all tenants must agree. Further guidance is expected closer to the implementation date.

What Is Still to Come?
There are several elements of the Act where implementation dates have not yet been confirmed, including:

• Rules around pets and personalising a property
• Restrictions on rent increases within the first 12 months of a tenancy
• Potential changes to older tenancy types

These areas remain under review and will be introduced in due course.

A More Structured Approach to Letting
Whilst legislation continues to evolve, the fundamentals of good letting remain unchanged.
Successful tenancies are built on:

• Clear and consistent processes
• Fair and well considered decision making

An understanding of both landlord and tenant needs

At Home Sales and Lettings, this is how we approach every property. By staying ahead of change and focusing on what matters in practice, we ensure our landlords are well prepared, without unnecessary concern.

Looking Ahead
Change within the lettings sector is ongoing, but it is rarely immediate.  With the right guidance and a measured approach, landlords can continue to make confident decisions, knowing their property and their position are protected.

If you would like to discuss how these changes may affect your property or your longer term plans, we would be happy to guide you through it.