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'Bigger role' for landlords call 'Bigger role' for landlords call
(about 13 hours later)
Scotland's landlords could play a greater role in the country's housing system, according to the Scottish Government. Scotland's private landlords could be playing a greater role in providing accommodation for homeless people, the Scottish Government has said.
The findings were revealed in the most comprehensive review of private rented housing ever undertaken in Scotland. The call came as it unveiled a comprehensive review of the private rented sector.
The study showed a marked increase in demand for private lets from students, young professionals and migrants. Housing Minister Alex Neil said the current economic downturn meant demand for private housing was increasing at a significant rate.
It will be unveiled by Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil on Tuesday morning. The study showed a marked rise in demand from migrants and students.
The review recorded high levels of satisfaction with landlords and let property among private tenants, although issues were raised about repairs and tenancy deposits. And it recorded high levels of satisfaction with landlords and let property among private tenants - although concerns were raised about repairs and tenancy deposits.
Landlords were positive about their experience but had concerns about the length and cost of legal action to seek repossession, and the administration of housing benefit. Legal change
Mr Neil will reveal the full findings of the study at an event run by the Scottish Association of Landlords in Edinburgh, and set out future policy for the sector. Landlords themselves had some concern about the length and cost of legal action to seek repossession and the administration of housing benefit.
"It is imperative we develop a modern and effective private-rented sector, capable of delivering the supply and standard of housing that the people of Scotland expect," said Mr Neil.
"The findings are encouraging, but we recognise there is still work to be done. Private landlords have the potential to play a greater role in providing accommodation for homeless households in particular."
Mr Neil said the Scottish ministers would also continue to press the UK Government for tax law changes to stoke institutional investment in private renting.