Landlord registration: consultation on a review of applications and fees

Ministerial Foreword

The Scottish Government's vision is for the people of Scotland to be able to live in good quality homes which have high management standards and are fit for the future.

With around 770,000 people now living in privately rented homes, we know that the sector plays a vital role in helping to meet housing need in Scotland.

Tenants should be able to rely on their landlord to provide them with a home that meets all the standards set out in legislation, and is managed professionally.

Part 8 of the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004 introduced mandatory registration for private landlords. As part of the registration process local authorities have the power to decide who can legally operate as a landlord. I know that most private landlords provide good quality accommodation and services to their tenants. However there is evidence that this is not always the case.

Local authorities have a crucial role in supporting landlords to meet their legal obligations and in taking action to deal with those who cannot or will not comply. To do this effectively they need to be assured that landlords understand what is required of them and meet those requirements. Asking for that information as part of the application will help local authorities make better informed decisions about whether or not a landlord complies with the requirements of registration.

I am very clear that landlord registration fees should be used by local authorities to deliver better standards in the sector. The application fees have not changed since 2006 but the sector and how it is regulated has. It is therefore reasonable to review the registration fee structure.

This consultation seeks your views on expanding the information provided by those who apply to be a registered landlord and on increasing application fees. These proposals are intended to strengthen the system of landlord registration in a proportionate way.

I look forward to hearing your views on this consultation.

Kevin Stewart MSP,
Minister for Local Government and Housing