Rent Controls Lifted in Scotland: What This Means for Landlords in 2025

After two years of tight regulation, Scotland’s temporary rent control measures ended on 31st March 2025, marking a new chapter for landlords. This long-anticipated change gives landlords more flexibility, however it also comes with a renewed need for careful planning and legal compliance.

At Albany Lettings, we’re helping landlords across Edinburgh and the Lothians make the most of these changes, with expert advice and property management support.

🔄 Why Were Rent Controls Introduced and Why Are They Ending?

The Scottish Government first introduced rent controls in 2022 to protect tenants during the cost-of-living crisis. Initially, rents were frozen, then capped at 3% per annum for existing tenancies.

Now, with inflation easing and the rental sector stabilising, Parliament has chosen not to extend these emergency powers beyond April 2025. That means landlords across Scotland can once again set rents based on market demand, however this must be within the rules of the Private Residential Tenancy (PRT) framework.

📊 Key Changes Landlords Need to Know

As of April 2025:

• Rent caps have been removed: You can now increase rent based on market value.
• Standard notice periods apply: A minimum of 3 months’ notice is required for rent increases.
• Rent increases limited to once every 12 months under a PRT.
• Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) remain an option for local authorities but are not widespread.

Need help understanding how this affects your rental property? Get in touch with Albany Lettings for tailored guidance.

💡 Opportunities for Landlords After Rent Cap Removal

1. Reassess and Adjust Rents

If your property has been locked into pre-2022 rates, now is the time for a strategic rent review. We’ll help you benchmark against local market trends to ensure your rent is fair and competitive.

2. Increase Rental Yields

The ability to realign rents may improve your cash flow, especially if you’ve been impacted by mortgage rate hikes, energy efficiency upgrades, or maintenance costs.

3. Explore New Property Investment Opportunities in Edinburgh

With fewer restrictions, Edinburgh and surrounding areas are once again attractive for buy-to-let investors. Let our expert letting agents guide you through high-yield investment options.

⚠️ Still Obligations to Meet

While the rent cap is gone, landlords must still:

• Issue formal notice for any rent increase (minimum 3 months).
• Ensure rent rises are proportionate to the local market.
• Be aware tenants can challenge increases with a rent officer if they feel the amount is unfair.

Albany Lettings offers rent review services and compliance checks to make sure your increase is lawful and well-communicated.

🛠️ Why Work with Albany Lettings?

As one of Edinburgh’s leading letting agents, we specialise in:

• Local market insights to inform rental pricing
• Tenant communication and legal compliance
• Full-service property management in Scotland

Whether you’re managing a single property or a growing portfolio, we’ll help you make smart, sustainable decisions in a post-rent-cap market.

📩 Need Help with Rent Reviews or Property Strategy?

Let’s talk. Albany Lettings is here to help you transition smoothly and profitably now that rent control in Scotland has ended.

📞 Contact our team today for expert advice on setting new rents, reviewing tenancy agreements, or planning your next property investment in Edinburgh.