Dumfries and Galloway tenants urged to know their rights
A new campaign has been launched by the Housing Minister.
Tenants in Dumfries and Galloway are being urged to know their rights with the launch of a new campaign.
There are over 9,000 privately rented households in the region, and now people are being urged to make sure they're aware of the protections they have for things like repairs and evictions.
The Housing Minister Paul McLennan launched this campaign.
He said: “People who rent their homes in Dumfries and Galloway already have strong rights when it comes to rent rises, maintenance and repairs and evictions. This campaign is important to make sure we increase awareness of these rights.
“We also want to highlight the end of the temporary change to rent adjudication on 31 March. This was put in place to support the transition back to market rent following the temporary cap on rents under the Cost of Living Act.
“Under existing legislation, most private tenants continue to have the right to seek a review of a rent increase, and I would encourage any tenant who is concerned about this to apply.
“We’re also taking forward measures in the Housing Bill to address the need for longer-term action on rent control and strengthen tenants’ rights where it’s needed.”
Citizens Advice Scotland spokesperson Aoife Derry said: “A safe, secure home is foundational to people’s lives. We see thousands of people coming to our local bureaux seeking advice because they are struggling to afford their rent, as well as landlords who need support.
“The Scottish CAB network is here to help with free confidential advice for anyone who needs it. We need to see a rented sector that works for everyone, where everyone knows their rights and responsibilities, and clear information and access to redress when things go wrong.
“Scotland deserves a rented sector that works for everyone so that more people can stay in their homes.”