Rent Level Consultation 2026/27

Feedback updated 7 Jan 2026

We asked

We asked tenants for their views on our proposals to increase rents. Financial pressures and inflation continue to be a challenge and we consulted on a minimum 7% increase which would make sure we can deliver our services in 2026/27.

You said

We asked tenants to consider 3 options and tell us what option they preferred, of those who responded:

66% chose option 1 an average weekly increase of 7%

19% chose option 2 an average weekly increase of 8%

13% chose option 3 saying that they would be open to an additional rent increase but no greater than £8 per week.

We did

All the feedback from the consultation has been added to a report to inform Councillors and at a special budget meeting of the Council in February 2026, Councillors will decide what the rent increase for 2026/27 will be.  After this meeting has taken place we will write out to all our tenants advising them of the outcome and the planned increase to their rent charge for 2026/27.

Closed 16 Nov 2025

Opened 30 Sep 2025

Results expected 28 Feb 2026

Overview

Each year we write out to all our tenants, tenants and residents groups and East Lothian Tenants and Residents Panel on any proposals to increase rent. 

This is your opportunity to have your say on our proposed 2026/27 rent increase.   The views of our tenants are a key part of the process; the more taking part - the more accurately you are represented.  Copies of the documents we have sent out are attached below. 

Why your views matter

The money you pay in rent as a tenant goes towards the cost of providing you with the services you receive as a council tenant.  The main items of expenditure are repairs and maintenance, operating costs, employee costs and loan charges for borrowing costs which pays for our modernsiation and new build programmes.

Please complete our online survey using the link below.

Areas

  • All Areas

Audiences

  • East Lothian Council Tenants

Interests

  • Rent