Coronavirus (Scotland) Act – What Does it Mean for Tenants?

Tenants and the Coronavirus Act

The coronavirus pandemic has had a severe impact on almost every area of our lives in Scotland. As a ‘severe and sustained threat to human life’ many changes have been already been introduced by the Westminster and Scottish governments. The latest legislative change, The Coronavirus (Scotland) Bill was drawn up on a cross party basis and pushed through Holyrood after just one day’s debate. The bill was passed and the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 came into force a few days later, on 7^th April 2020. This makes it the fastest turnaround for a bill in Scottish parliamentary history.

What does this new Act mean for Tenants?

One of the most important functions of the new Coronavirus (Scotland) Act is to protect tenants from eviction during this deadly pandemic. The new rules mean that tenants must now be given 6 months’ notice, prior to eviction.

There are several exceptions to this including

- the landlord needs to live in the property
- a member of the landlord’s family needs to live in the property
- the tenant has engaged in antisocial behaviour
- the tenant has been involved in criminal behaviour

This change will help protect tenants who have suddenly lost their income and are facing financial hardship as a result of the pandemic. The extension to the eviction notice period will give people in this unfortunate position, the time they need to apply for the necessary support or benefits.

It must be noted that the measures introduced by this Act are only temporary and have been put in place to deal with the unique situation that the country is currently in. For this reason, the new Act has a 6^thmonth limitation which is due to expire on 30^th September 2020. However, there is provision in the legislation to extend this period if required.

The welfare of tenants should always be a top propriety for landlords and letting agents. We would therefore actively encourage any tenant facing problems paying their rent on time, to get in touch with us as soon as possible. We will be able to offer essential support and guidance during this extremely difficult time.

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Marcela K.

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The Property Management department at Western Lettings, under the guidance of Matt, has truly left a lasting positive impression. Matt and his team have demonstrated an impressive level of expertise, consistently showcasing their knowledge, responsiveness, and utmost professionalism. Working with them has been an absolute pleasure.

Steve M.

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I had one flat, managed by Western Lettings, which lasted almost 6 years. I never felt having the one flat, that I was treated any different to a person having many properties. The whole experience was excellent. All the staff were happy to help with any requests. Problems were dealt and communication between me and the tenant through the staff was prompt and professional. I would recommend Western Lettings to anyone looking to rent out a property

Nikhil N.

1695931338

★★★★★ Special thanks to KIRSTY and SARAH!!! What an excellent service they've provided as our letting agent!! Their expertise, responsiveness, and professionalism have made our rental experience seamless and enjoyable. Their portal to report complaints works seamlessly, moreover they get it fixed promptly.House leaving process was also seamless, unlike other landlords/letting agents who put unnecessary charges/fees and try to steal your safe deposits, Western Lettings did not charge me for cleaning fees. However we left the house in well condition.

Fraser B.

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As a new landlord, I wanted to make sure I chose the right letting agency to represent me. I'm happy with the values Western Lettings have displayed in the first few months.The process of setting up the property and securing tenants was made straightforward and they communicated well throughout.There was only a slight hiccup with being double billed for the cleaning fee, which took a little time to resolve. A maintenance issue was also raised by the tenants, which I'm waiting to see quotes from their chosen contractor for.So far I have every faith they will resolve the maintenance issue to a high standard deserving of the 5th star

Kavan B.

1694467301

I've been using Western Lettings for over a year now and I'm so glad I chose them.Exceptionally high standards in terms of professionalism and customer service.They always respond to emails within about ten minutes and phone calls are always answered.I wish more companies had their ethos and standards.I honestly can't fault them.It's a small price to pay so I can sleep easier and not worry about my property.Many thanks to the team and their great leader, Jack.

Taryn

1690980551

I rented with Western during the pandemic and they were great and always respond quickly.

sandrine C.

1689429878

An extremely professional agency, trustful and always willing to help its tenants.

L T

1682603747

Responsive, polite, efficient, trustworthy. I cannot rate Western Lettings highly enough. As a landlord, I have been very satisfied with their services and grateful when they have organised repairs, gas checks etc for reasonable fees.

Martin S.

1677235155

Excellent letting agents. They deliver on everything they promise. Flawless.

Amanda W.

1674127924

Great agents! Very helpful...nothing a problem...lovely to deal with. Swift responses to any queries...excellent experience. And a lovely flat...thank you!

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