Private rented sector - rent increase frequency: equality impact assessment

Recommendations and Conclusion

Whilst recognising that the data available does not provide a complete picture of the needs of those with protected characteristics, this assessment has considered the needs of these groups as fully as possible.

The overall assessment is that the proposals to provide that the rent payable under a PRT of property that is not in a rent control area may not be increased during the first 12 months of the tenancy will benefit all tenants entering into PRTs in areas where rents are not controlled and will not introduce changes that directly or indirectly discriminate against those with protected characteristics.

The proposals may be beneficial for certain groups with protected characteristics including older people and children/younger people, disabled people and women who are more likely to rent in the private sector or who may experience more difficulty in affording rent costs, by giving them the security of knowing that the rent they have agreed to at the start of the tenancy will not increase during the first twelve months.

As set out above, the evidence base around equalities characteristics among private landlords in Scotland is limited, although it may provide some indicative information about the Scottish sector. However, direct evidence has not been identified that indicates that landlords with particular characteristics will experience different impacts from the proposed change.

It is recognised that the details of this change will need to be communicated in a way which takes into account the differing needs of equality groups, and ensures that helpful information is accessible to all landlords and tenants.

This may be particularly necessary to support some equalities groups, such as minority ethnic tenants, who, evidence suggests may in some cases face language barriers which impact awareness of their rights, and who, along with young people, may also be less comfortable challenging poor practices.