Unfair to Scottish landlords
At present Scottish Landlords see as unfair the way rules concerning the council tax works, Nicola sturgeon announced in November last year a commission to examine a fairer way of funding local government services.
The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) wants to see a change in rules so that empty furnished properties will be entitled to the same six-month full council tax exemption that unfurnished properties qualify for, as long as they are being repaired, upgraded or marketed for new tenants, the (SAL) will be giving evidence to the Scottish Governments commission regarding local tax reform
It it is asking for the system to be changed so that landlords cannot be pursued for outstanding money when tenants in a house in multiple occupation have agreed to take over liability for the council tax, it also wants a two-year cut-off after which local authorities cannot pursue property owners for council tax when a tenant has been responsible for paying.
Changes to the current system should encourage Landlords to invest more easily in their properties and subsequently provide a better service for their tenants.