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Over 40% of people who have tried to find private-rented accommodation in Scotland in the last five years have found it difficult to do so according to a new poll.

 

The poll found that 23% of respondents sought to rent privately but 43% of them found it hard to find a suitable property.

 

The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) and the Council of Letting Agents (CLA), who jointly commissioned the poll, say it shows a shortage of supply in the Private Rented Sector (PRS) which is likely to become worse in the coming years.

 

They say the Scottish Government should address the shortage by creating an environment which encourages investment in the sector, drive up standards and ensure value for money for tenants.

John Blackwood, chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords said: “Although the private-rented sector in Scotland sometimes has a poor reputation, this poll shows that significant number of people are trying to access the market and that many of them are not able to find suitable accommodation.”

 

“We are acutely aware of the need to introduce measures which protect tenants from poor treatment by landlords and letting agents and will work with all parties to drive these rogue companies and individuals out of the sector. At the same time, however, it is important to take measures which encourage investment in the sector.”

 

He added: “Landlords and letting agents must be given the confidence to invest in the housing sector as well as be encouraged to refurbish properties and make them available for rent.

 

“They need to be able to evict tenants who indulge in anti-social behaviour or repossess properties that have been abandoned to so that properties can be let to responsible tenants looking for accommodation and help meet the increased demand.”

 

Shortage of private-rental accommodation

4 February 2015