Greens launch New Deal for Tenants
Tenants in the private rented sector are set to get new rights thanks to Greens in government.
Minister for Tenants’ Rights Patrick Harvie has launched a new consultation on proposals that will see rent controls, new protections against eviction and the right to redecorate and keep pets.
Tenants’ Rights Minister Patrick Harvie said:
“Now is the time to do more for people who rent their homes, whether they are renting privately, from the council or from a housing association. Delivering a new deal for tenants is central to our ambitions for a fairer Scotland, tackling child poverty and meeting climate change targets.
“Above all else it will significantly improve the lives of Scotland’s tenants, giving them more stability, more choice over where they live and how they decorate their homes, and the confidence that their home will be of a high quality. At the same time it will recognise the interests of good quality, responsible landlords.
Commenting, Scottish Greens housing spokesperson Ariane Burgess said: “Everyone has a right to a secure and affordable home, and Greens in government will enhance that right with new protections for private tenants.
“For too long insecurity and poor conditions have been far too common in the private rented sector, and we’ve seen rents increase, even during the pandemic. That’s why we need a New Deal for Tenants, with action on unfair evictions and new rights to allow tenants make their house a home.
“Scottish Greens are on the side of tenants. This ambitious programme of reform is being led by Greens in government and will have an impact in every part of Scotland, which is why more Green councillors are needed to make it work for communities at a local level.”