Fed-up tenants gathered outside the Scottish Parliament to advocate for rent controls, citing their struggles in the face of rising rent costs. The rally, organized by the union Living Rent, urged MSPs to support rent controls and other protective measures outlined in the upcoming Housing Bill vote. The bill aims to address the soaring rent prices in Scotland, including a 61.3% increase since 2010 and even higher rates in major cities like Lothian and Greater Glasgow.
Living Rent highlighted the overwhelming burden on tenants, emphasising the urgent need for action to regulate landlords’ profits. With housing costs being a significant financial burden for many households, especially low-income earners who may spend up to 50% of their income on rent, the call for rent controls is more pressing than ever. In response to the housing crisis, the Scottish Government declared a national housing emergency, with several local authorities following suit.
The campaign for rent controls coincides with reports of skyrocketing rents across Scotland, with new rents averaging £893 per month in 2024. The situation is further exacerbated by cases like paramedic Logan Vaughn, who faced a significant rent increase following an eviction, underscoring the precariousness of the rental market. Homelessness, particularly stemming from the private sector, has also seen a worrying increase, with projections indicating a further rise in 2024.
Political figures like Scottish Greens Co-Leader Patrick Harvie have echoed the urgency of the Housing Bill, emphasising the need to protect tenants and address the underlying issues in the housing market. Organisations like UNISON Scotland have also stressed the impact of housing instability on public service recruitment and retention, with younger members facing challenges in accessing affordable housing options.
As the debate on rent controls intensifies, stakeholders across various sectors, including education and housing, are urging MSPs to support the proposed measures in the Housing Bill. The focus remains on creating a fair and sustainable housing system that prioritises tenants’ rights and affordability. With the vote on the bill imminent, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for tenants grappling with soaring rent prices and housing insecurity.