Exempting people who offer their second home for free as part of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme from having to register as a landlord in Scotland

New statutory instrument

New legislation has been issued in relation to landlord registration in Scotland, further to the launch of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

In force from 12 May 2022, the Private Landlord Registration (Modification) (Scotland) Order 2022 (SSI.No.163/2022) modifies section 83(6) of the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004 to add an exemption from the requirement to register as a landlord for people who offer a second home for free as part of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

NB - the £350 per month 'thank you' payment from the UK Government for those offering housing under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme is not classed as rent.

The policy note for the Order advises that its purpose is to -

 '... simplify the process and reduce administrative burdens and costs for those seeking to help, and increase the number of properties being offered through the scheme and so support more Ukrainians fleeing conflict.'

SSI.No.163/2022 is available from legislation.gov.uk