Letting agent backs Shelter Scotland reform campaign

Letting agent backs Shelter Scotland reform campaign

Umega Lettings, a leading letting agent based in Edinburgh, has given its backing to Shelter Scotland’s Make Renting Right campaign.

The company said supporting the housing charity’s campaign for reforms to the private rented sector in Scotland was a “no-brainer”.

Umega founder Neil McInnes signed up to the campaign at a special event in the Scottish capital, alongside tenants and landlords for which it manages properties.

McInnes said: “We support the Make Renting Right campaign because changes in legislation that prevent exploitation of tenants are a no-brainer. Done right, these changes will help to underpin a much more sustainable and successful private rented sector for both tenants and landlords.

“As a letting agent it would be easy for us to bury our heads in the sand and take up a safe and predictable position around the changes that are coming - but that would be irresponsible.

“Scotland’s private rented sector needs joined-up thinking from those representing landlords and tenants. By working together we can ensure that the opportunity to improve private renting for all is not missed.”

McInnes has also authored a blog post explaining his company’s support in greater detail.

Shelter is pressing for the introduction of a “modern” tenancy agreement that gives security to tenants and landlords, as well as more stability for people who want to make rented housing their home.

The charity has called for a fairer system for sorting out renting problems when they occur, as well as more predictable rents.

Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, emphasised that reform of the private rented sector would benefit landlords as well as tenants.

Brown said: “Landlords too would see a more constant and predictable income with less downtime between rents and a more stable relationships with their tenants.”

He added: “We’re pleased that our calls are supported by Umega Lettings and other reputable letting agents and landlords.”

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