Does the recently UK renters rights bill affect Scotland?

23rd July 2025

The UK Renters' Rights Bill does have some impact in Scotland, but its main provisions apply to England.

What the Bill Does in England?
Abolishes Section 21 "no-fault" evictions.

Introduces longer notice periods.

Strengthens tenant protections (e.g. against retaliatory evictions).

Applies Awaab's Law to private rentals (damp and mould standards)

Bans rental bidding wars and discrimination based on benefits or children.

Impact in Scotland
Direct Impact
The Bill includes specific clauses for Scotland that:

Ban discrimination against renters with children

Ban discrimination against renters receiving benefits

These changes amend the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016

No Impact on Core Tenancy Rules
Scotland already abolished no-fault evictions in 2017

The Bill does not change eviction procedures, rent controls, or tenancy types in Scotland

Broader reforms like Awaab's Law or the Decent Homes Standard do not apply to Scottish tenancies

Legislative Consent
The Scottish Parliament issued a Legislative Consent Memorandum in February 2025, agreeing to the limited provisions that affect Scotland2

What's Happening Separately in Scotland
Scotland is working on its own Housing (Scotland) Bill, which includes:

Rent regulation powers for local authorities

Stronger enforcement mechanisms

Potential reforms to improve affordability and tenant rights.