Landlords across Scotland need to prepare for the impact of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, according to DJ Alexander, the country’s largest lettings and estate agency.
The firm warned that many landlords may not yet appreciate the significance of the legislation, which has now received Royal Assent and will be phased in over several years.
Under the Act, local authorities must assess rent conditions in their areas and submit findings to the Scottish Government by 31st May 2027.
Following these assessments and further regulation, ministers will be able to designate specific areas for rent control, with measures expected to come into force between mid to late 2027 or early 2028.
Kevin Fraser, managing director of DJ Alexander Scotland, said: “While the timescale for implementation of the Housing (Scotland) Act may seem some way off it is essential for landlords to ensure that they are prepared now for the implications it will have on their business.
“This is a major piece of legislation that impacts the legal, regulatory, and financial operation of the private rented sector (PRS) and landlords need to be aware that their business will be affected.”
Fraser said landlords must understand precisely how the legislation will affect their ability to operate, their profitability and their relationship with regulatory bodies and tenants.
He added that, with most landlords in Scotland managing between one and five properties, many may struggle to keep up with the scale of change.
He said: “This Act will potentially limit the amount landlords can raise rent; it may force landlords to allow tenants to make alterations to properties and to have pets; and it has the potential to have a serious impact on the viability and profitability of homes in the letting sector.
“But there are solutions to ensure that landlords can continue to operate a successful letting business with the right information and advice.”
Fraser concluded: “Renting properties has never been more complex, and the sector has faced unprecedented change over the last decade.
“Landlords understand the need to keep ahead of these changes to ensure their business is compliant and profitable.
“The introduction of this Act has prompted DJ Alexander to put on two free landlord events in Edinburgh on 26th November and Aberdeen on 27th November (details below) to provide a full range of accountancy, financial, legal and property advice to ensure that landlords can confidently and assuredly face up to the challenges posed by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 and be ready for its implementation in the coming years.
“I look forward to personally welcoming everyone interested in finding out more about how this Act will impact upon their business and the wider private rented sector.”
