Scottish Government announces £5 million loan fund for private-sector landlords whose tenants are unable to pay rent during coronavirus outbreak

Private Rent Sector Landlord COVID-19 Loan Scheme to offer eligible landlords up to 100 per cent of lost rental income for a single property

The Scottish Government has announced a £5 million loan fund for private-sector landlords whose tenants are unable to pay their rent during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Announcing the fund today, the Scottish Government says that the Private Rent Sector Landlord COVID-19 Loan Scheme will support private-sector landlords who are not classified as businesses, have five or less properties to rent, and that it will offer eligible landlords up to 100 per cent of lost rental income for a single property.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said -

'We want to ensure no one loses their home during this unprecedented public health pandemic which is why we passed legislation to protect tenants against any eviction action for six months.

This new £5 million loan fund builds on that action and offers landlords the same security as tenants, ensuring they have financial support if tenants struggle to pay rent because of coronavirus.

'While all tenants should pay their rent if they can, we recognise the financial pressure people are facing. The Scottish Government encourages landlords to talk to their tenants about rent payment issues. We also expect landlords to be as flexible as possible with their tenants, discuss managing rental payments and help them find sources of financial support and advice.'

For more information, see Aid for private rental landlords from gov.scot