Glasgow could roll out rent caps from 2027 under new housing legislation

Rent caps could be rolled out in Glasgow in 2027 when a new housing law comes into force.

The cost of leasing from a private landlord could see annual rent increases capped at 1% above inflation or up to a maximum of 6%.

Once new legislation is enacted, the council needs to submit recommendations for rent control areas to the Scottish Government, according to SNP councillor Ruairi Kelly.

Speaking at last week’s full council meeting, the housing convenor said: “If ministers agree that rent controls are justified and proportionate, an eight-week public consultation would then follow before regulations are laid to formally designate the area.

“This means rent controls could be introduced in Glasgow from late 2027 at the earliest, subject to thorough assessment, consultation and ministerial approval.”

He added: “The Bill sets out a framework for rent regulation, including a cap on annual rent increases at CPI plus 1 or up to a maximum of 6% in exceptional circumstances.”

He explained the potential changes when asked about when rent controls would be introduced in the city by Scottish Greens councillor Martha Wardrop.

Councillor Kelly told the meeting how council officers are taking part in a rent control working group with the Government.

He added: “This is a significant step forward in tackling affordability pressures in the private rented sector and Glasgow is committed to playing a leading role in shaping and delivering fairer housing outcomes for tenants across the city.”

Rent controls were previously in place in Scotland but expired in April 2025.