Supporting Scotland’s practitioners

Rent control legislation now law in Scotland – reminder for landlords

Temporary legislation to help with the cost of living crisis is now in effect in Scotland – effectively meaning a legal freeze of all rents and limiting the circumstances of evictions – until at least March 2023.

The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act has become law after receiving Royal Assent. The legislation gives ministers the temporary power to cap rent increases for private and social tenants, as well as to prevent eviction actions resulting from the cost crisis, until at least 31 March 2023. With the cap set at 0%, rents are now effectively frozen, with eviction action prevented except in specific circumstances and increased damages for unlawful evictions now available.

Scottish Budget

The Finance Secretary John Swinney has confirmed that the draft Scottish Budget 2023-24 will be unveiled on 15 December. The draft budget will include planned rates for devolved taxation including business rates, income tax and LBTT. ACCA will bring updates as soon as we have them – do keep visiting our Budget Hub for updates.

Got thoughts on Scottish taxation and spending? Drop Susan a line on susan.love@accaglobal.com.

Short-term let licensing rules

Those working with clients who own accommodation which is let out on a short-term basis, eg as holiday or self-catering accommodation, should be aware that short-term let licensing is now the law in Scotland. Anyone operating such premises needs to apply for a licence from October and before April 2023.

Licensing conditions and costs may vary according to local authority with some introducing additional planning requirements. Find out more in a helpful guide from the Association of Scotland’s Self Caterers.

Scottish SME funds update

• British Business Bank Nations and Regions Funding Guide – find the latest Scottish specific funding in BBB’s guide
• Talent Scotland Business Advice Service – help available for Scottish-based firms seeking to navigate the immigration and visa system
• Innovation Support – find out what Scottish Enterprise’s innovation support offer could do for firms you work with
• Green Heat Innovation Fund  – provides grant funding for companies looking to invest in Scotland to develop green-heating solutions
• Biotech feasibility Funding – work with biotech firms? The Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre can link up academics with feasibility studies for Scottish firms.

Keep in touch

Your feedback and insights help us shape policy and bring positive change across several key areas. Sign up for our member survey platform to have your say on the things that matter to you or drop Susan a line at susan.love@accaglobal.com.