Overview
- MSPs approved the wide‑ranging legislation by 89–28, establishing the UK’s first statutory framework for local rent control zones.
- Councils will be able to cap annual increases at inflation plus one percentage point, up to a 6% maximum, once ministers designate zones.
- Mid‑market rent and build‑to‑let properties, including student accommodation, are exempt from the caps, which ministers said is to protect housebuilding.
- The law adds Awaab’s law repair deadlines, new ask‑and‑act homelessness‑prevention duties for public bodies, and updated domestic abuse protections.
- MSPs also voted to uncap council tax on second and empty homes, as charities warn falling completions and record‑low social housing construction demand major investment.