Ministerial Foreword
Our vision for housing is that all people in Scotland live in high-quality, sustainable homes that they can afford and that meet their needs. We are clear that all housing, no matter what the tenure, is crucial to our country's health, well-being and economic prosperity.
We recognise the vital role that private rented housing plays in providing people with a flexible housing option. It can meet a range of needs, for some people it is a long term housing solution that suits their own personal needs and for others it is a short term solution as they move towards other tenures. Following on from the commitment made in Homes Fit for the 21st Century, we want to help create a private rented sector in Scotland that offers accommodation of a high standard, both in terms of physical condition and management, whilst being able to meet the increasing demands being placed on it.
Therefore, over the last 6 months, we have been working in partnership with the Scottish Private Rented Sector Strategy Group to develop a consultation that will seek your views on how we can work together to create a flourishing private rented sector (PRS). I would like to thank the members of the Group and the wider, virtual network of stakeholders who supported the Group's work.
This consultation document describes the Group's vision and strategic aims for the sector over the next 10 years and the results of the consultation will inform a final Scottish Government strategy for the sector, which we will publish later this year. A key theme throughout this document is consumer empowerment. We are clear that increased consumer awareness and knowledge is crucial in helping to drive up standards within the sector.
We feel the time is right to set out a strategic vision for the private rented sector. The current, challenging economic times have impacted heavily on individuals and businesses. Therefore, we want to be clear about the role the Scottish Government can play in making the private rented sector a more attractive housing option for a wider range of households.
I would urge you to take part in this important consultation. We want to gather a range of views and perspectives, from a range of stakeholders across Scotland. This will enable us to develop a strategy that will help create a private rented sector that meets the needs of both tenants and landlords.
Keith Brown MSP
Minister for Housing and Transport