The Scottish Government has announced they intend to make a temporary legislative change to amend the mandatory grounds for eviction under the Private Residential Tenancy from three months to six months.
The move comes as part of wider Government measures to support those tenants suffering financial hardship due to Coronoavirus.
Ministers have also written to the UK Finance and the UK Government urging them to move to a six-month mortgage holiday for all mortgages, including Buy to Let after the banks had agreed a three month mortgage holiday.
In a letter sent to all agents yesterday, 18 March, on the letting agent register, the Scottish Government has asked for everyone's support to ensure tenants who find themselves in financial difficulty due to COVID-19 are made aware of the support available.
Letter to agents
I know that we must get the balance right between protecting tenants and ensuring landlords can continue to provide housing. I would emphasise the position is changing on a daily basis.
I am sure landlords recognise we are in unparalleled times and we cannot have people at risk of being made homeless.
Kevin Stuart, MSP, Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Communicating with tenants
Tenants are urged to apply for Statutory Sick Pay and Universal Credit (UC), where eligible, as well as speaking to you as soon as they are in financial difficulty.
UNIVERSAL CREDIT
Those tenants that are affected can claim Universal Credit (UC), if eligible, which includes support for housing costs. The UK Government has introduced some temporary changes to make this easier.
Universal Credit
DISCRETIONARY HOUSING PAYMENTS
Tenants who are receiving Housing Benefit or UC but still can't afford their housing costs may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP).
DHP
SCOTTISH WELFARE FUND
Tenants may be able to also get support through the Scottish Welfare Fund.
Scottish Welfare Fund
WHAT PROPERTYMARK IS DOING
On the back of members' comments, Propertymark is bringing these to the Government’s attention to ensure the sector’s voice is heard. We will inform members and the sector of any further progression.