Overwhelming support for introduction of legal requirements to make eviction last resort
28 July 2010
Shelter Scotland is calling for ministers to back a legal requirement for landlords to take every step to avoid eviction, following overwhelming support for this move in the recent publication of responses to the Scottish Government’s consultation on the Eviction of Tenants in the Social Rented Sector (1).
The figures show 78% of respondents (2) support the introduction of pre-action requirements which would see a checklist for landlords enshrined in law to ensure every avenue is explored to avoid eviction.
The housing and homelessness charity has been campaigning for the introduction of pre-action requirements, which would give social tenants equal protection against losing their home to that already in place for homeowners through the Homeowner and Debtor Protection Act.
Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity, said:
“These figures show there is overwhelming support for action to reduce evictions in the social rented sector and for the introduction of pre-action requirements to ensure every step must be taken to avoid eviction.
“We hope the Scottish Government will take note of this when it comes to make its recommendations on the consultation responses. Only by putting in place a legal framework of pre-action requirements, rather than taking a voluntary approach, can we ensure every step is taken by landlords to prevent people becoming homeless. In the current economic climate, with more people struggling financially, this is more important than ever.”
Notes to Editors:
- To read the publication of responses click here.
- 69 out of the 88 respondents that answered the consultation question about the introduction of Pre-Action Requirements supported the introduction of this measure.
- Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity. Shelter Scotland believes that everyone should have a home. We help people find and keep a home. We campaign for decent housing for all.
- Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
