The 2026 Scottish elections have concluded, leaving many in the private rented sector (PRS) eager to understand the implications for landlords, tenants, and the wider housing market. While the formation of a new Scottish government remains uncertain, early indications suggest John Swinney will return as First Minister, with the Scottish National Party (SNP) likely to lead once again.

Election outcomes and political landscape

The election results have produced a significantly altered Scottish Parliament, with a large number of first-time Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) and a reshaped political balance. Notably, Reform UK secured 17 MSPs, matching Scottish Labour’s tally and marking a substantial presence for a relatively new party. This development introduces an element of unpredictability to Holyrood’s future dynamics.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Greens and Scottish Liberal Democrats enjoyed strong performances, positioning themselves as influential voices in forthcoming budget discussions. The SNP’s return to government will likely see other parties engaging on a case-by-case basis, negotiating support or opposition on individual issues.

A reset opportunity for the PRS

The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) views the new Parliament as a critical moment to reset perceptions and policies regarding the private rented sector. SAL emphasises the importance of collaboration with MSPs across all parties to promote a more balanced understanding of the PRS.

For too long, the relationship between tenants and landlords has been framed as adversarial, a narrative reinforced by some political campaigns portraying the sector as exploitative. SAL challenges this view, highlighting that landlords across Scotland provide flexible, appropriate housing solutions tailored to tenant needs.

“Our tenants are our customers. It is not in our interests to hurt that relationship and our members pride themselves on doing everything they can to ensure that their tenants remain happy, because happy tenants remain in properties and help landlords to grow their businesses,” SAL states.

Engagement and future collaboration

SAL commits to working directly with MSPs, government officials, and other stakeholders to influence housing policy positively. The association offers its extensive experience, insight, and research to help shape policies that move beyond rhetoric and deliver meaningful change for Scotland’s housing sector.

“We will work directly with you and help you to form the policies needed to challenge the existing narrative and deliver the change we need to make Scottish housing fit for the future,” SAL adds, extending an invitation to all new and returning MSPs to engage constructively with the PRS community.

What this means for landlords

Landlords should anticipate a period of adjustment as the new Parliament settles and begins to address housing and rental sector issues. The presence of Reform UK MSPs and the strengthened positions of the Greens and Liberal Democrats may introduce new policy debates and priorities.

However, SAL’s proactive approach offers reassurance that landlords will have a dedicated advocate working to ensure the sector’s interests are represented fairly. This engagement aims to foster a more collaborative environment, moving away from adversarial assumptions and towards policies that support sustainable rental businesses and tenant satisfaction.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association has launched its new Training Academy for UK landlords, providing structured guidance, compliance education, and practical knowledge to support landlords at every stage. Members can now complete the programme and become TLA Certified Landlords at no additional cost as part of their membership.

Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/

Those looking to join and access the full training and certification can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/landlord-association-membership-uk/

TLA update

The Landlord Association is currently onboarding new service providers into its Trusted Partner Hub, a new initiative designed to support landlords, tenants, letting agents, and property managers with vetted, high-quality services. As one of the fastest growing landlord associations in the UK, TLA offers partners direct access to an engaged and active member base at the point of need. Service providers across legal, maintenance, insurance, finance, mortgages, tenant screening, and property services can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/