New landlord registration enforcement guidance has been issued by the Scottish government to all local authorities on regulating landlords in the private rented sector.

The Landlord Registration Statutory Guidance, which highlights best practice examples to help local authorities effectively regulate the landlord registration system, requires councils to maintain a register of private landlords and ensure that only landlords deemed to be ‘fit and proper’ are permitted on the register.

Kevin Stewart, minister for local government and housing, said: “The private rented sector plays an increasingly important role in Scotland’s housing system. Around 760,000 people in Scotland live in privately rented homes – twice the number of ten years ago

“I want to see a sector that is characterised by more good quality homes, being managed professionally and where tenants feel secure. Where there are poor standards, local authorities should be taking tough, targeted enforcement to ensure every landlord is fit for purpose.

“I would like to encourage all local authorities to use this guidance and examples of best practice to raise standards in the sector and ensure greater consistency in enforcement across Scotland.”