Scotland to increase eviction notice period to six months

The Scottish government has announced a new bill that will increase the minimum notice period for eviction. This law will work for both private and social tenants, and will take effect for six months. Although most of the measures that make up the Coronavirus emergency plan will expire in six months, Parliament may extend them for two additional periods of six months if it deems it necessary.

This bill will be discussed on April 1 at Holyrood, pending approval and immediate application. During a press conference at St. Andrew’s House in Edinburgh, Scottish Prime Minister, Nicola Sturgeon said: “The main benefit of this law is that no one can be evicted for a minimum period of 6 months.”

“We are going through a terrible crisis and it is our job to ensure help to those most in need; all landlords must give at least a six months’ notice before evicting their tenants.”

“This new legislation will apply to tenants in the private and social sectors. What we want is to provide greater security to all tenants during these times of uncertainty and crisis.”

“It is necessary to apply this law.”

Robin Blacklock, President of the Scottish Property Federation, supports the application of this new law and said: “It was necessary. The entire population needs much more help with this health emergency that has been caused by COVID-19. We applaud this initiative for part of the government as it seeks to protect those most in need.”

“We urge all members of the SPF to do their best to support society during this period of crisis; the Coronavirus pandemic poses a huge risk to people, not just Scotland and the UK, but the entire world, These are times when we must put aside any political, ethnic or social differences and work together to stop this threat.”

“We are confident that deferring commercial or home rental payments is an important step in ensuring social welfare, at least for the duration of the pandemic. Current circumstances have prompted us to act and it is time to implement this and any other measure that prioritizes social welfare over individual welfare.”

“We are proud to say that our members have already started helping tenants by offering guidance on how they should manage their rent payment obligations. It’s important to mention that during this period the economy is reconfiguring, social constraints have affected economic activities and not only from the tenants but also from the owners. Many companies are struggling against new financial obligations that are not their fault.”

“However, we must take into account that many landlords are companies and employers. They depend on cash flow to pay their debts and keep operating. Owners must also receive government support during this period of crisis, by example; they should not be penalized for empty properties as it is not their fault that they cannot rent these properties during the pandemic.“