The chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords – which represents letting agents as well as landlords north of the border  – is urging his members to “make their voice heard” on lettings issues, but stop short of saying who they should back today. 

John Blackwood has written to major newspapers across the country, although only the Scottish Daily Mail has published his statement. 

He voices concern that legislation being introduced by the Scottish Government this autumn – and highly unlikelyh to be affected by whoever takes power at Westminster after today’s vote – could effectively remove the right of landlords to end leases when they wish and may introduce rent caps.

The letter is published in full below:

Dear Editor

With polling day less than a week away the debate has already focussed heavily on private rented housing in England, but what about Scotland?                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Housing policy is already devolved to the Scottish Parliament and many voters in Scotland might not be aware that the Scottish Government has already announced plans to introduce legislation this autumn.  

This could include potentially removing the right of a landlord to end a lease when they choose, even after sufficient notice is given, as well as imposing rent caps on what landlords can charge, potentially restricting choice in the market.

With this debate set to run well into 2016, landlords throughout Scotland need make their voices heard.

John Blackwood

Chief Executive