A WEBSITE to name and shame private landlords who are giving tenants a poor deal has been launched by a Glasgow MSP.

Patrick Harvie has been campaigning for better rights and conditions for tenants in the private sector.

Now the Green MSP wants those unhappy with their service to post their experiences on a new website, in a bid to help drive up standards.

Mr Harvie said he will push for measures to help tenants in the Housing Bill, soon to be published by the Scottish Government.

Rentrights has five themes the MSP wants to see improved on. It includes sections on affordable rents, unlawful evictions, energy and warmth standards, security of lease and reviews to finding out others' experiences.

Mr Harvie said: "The growing number of private tenants in Scotland deserve a better deal. There is a lot of talk about a cost of living crisis but for many people the rising cost of rent is the biggest expense they face.

"Short and insecure leases lead to constant upheaval and can undermine communities, so we need to tip the balance of power more in favour of responsible tenants."

Earlier this month the Evening Times reported on a debate in the Scottish Parliament where the MSP called for regulation to ensure affordable rents and acceptable standards in the private sector.

He said while the political debate tended to focus on the social housing sector and ensuring adequate supply of affordable homes he argued those in private rented accommodation should not be forgotten.

Mr Harvie added: "I hope this website will encourage more private tenants to share their experiences and play a part in demanding a better deal from those who make the rules. I look forward to pressing the Scottish Government to go further."