Chamber and committees

I can talk only about the Edinburgh area that I represent, but I note that, in Edinburgh, a two-bedroom property is about £400 or £450 in the social rented sector but can be up to £1,200 in the private rented sector. Could rent control areas provide an element of stability with regard to rents?

Your target was to reach 1,850 by March 2025.

What is your view on the suggestion that landlords could ask for a higher deposit from tenants who have a pet? Obviously, there is a question of affordability. At the moment, people have to find two months’ rent for a deposit, which in Edinburgh can be up to a couple of thousand pounds. What is your view on higher deposits for pet owners?

Good morning. Lucy, I will put this question to you, as you touched on the issue first. Do you think that the introduction of rent control areas is part of the solution when it comes to alleviating poverty?

We have discussed potential damage to property, including soiling of carpets and cats clawing at curtains. SSPCA officers go round many properties. Is there any evidence to suggest that the damage level is higher in rented properties than it is in owner-occupied ones?

Do you have anything to add, Becky?

Lucy, you indicated that you wanted to come in, and then I will bring in James Calder.

I have a couple of specific questions for Jon Turner. The Link Group was awarded a contract for private sector leasing management in Edinburgh in 2020. At the time, there were 1,410 private sector leasing properties and the company had a target to hit. Where are you on the target?

You have not hit your target. Previous panels have spoken about landlord costs. Your company’s management fee is £55 per week per property, which was recently increased. What do tenants get for that money?

Do you manage the property on behalf of the landlord?