Rent Consultation Survey 23/24

Closed 16 Dec 2022

Opened 8 Nov 2022

Contact

Service Development Team

0800413721

tenantconsultation@eastlothian.gov.uk

Feedback updated 26 Jan 2023

We asked

We asked tenants, tenants and residents groups and ELTRP for their views on our proposals to increase rents. 

The council is aware that for many tenants this year is possibly even more difficult with high inflation and a cost of living that is placing huge stresses on household finances notably around energy costs and the price of food. We explained that without a rent increase in April 2023, it will be impossible for the Council to continue to deliver the current level of service including its ambitious capital programme.

With these factors in mind we set out a range of options 0%, 3% and 5% and explained the effect that each of these options would have on our housing service.

 

You said

Of those who responded to our consultation:

  • 92% were happy with the level of consultation and information they received about the annual rent increase
  • 85% thought that the rent they pay is good value for money

 

We did

All the feedback received was added to a report to inform the Elected members of the outcome of the consultation. The report will be heard at the Council’s Special Budget Meeting in February 2023.  At that meeting, a decision will be taken regarding the rent increase.  We will write out to all tenants after this meeting to inform them of the outcome and any planned incrrease to their rent charge for 2023/2024.

Overview

East Lothian Council consults with tenants, tenants and residents’ groups, and East Lothian Tenants and Residents Panel (ELTRP) on any proposals to increase rents. Over the last two years the Council has not consulted as a result of the decision taken to freeze rents in recognition of the financial challenges being faced by tenants as a result of Covid-19.

It is important to note that the impact of the previous year’s freezes as well as the increasing costs and increasing interest rates will affect future years’ affordability and our capital investment (modernisation and upgrades to housing stock). In this context, the Council has decided to consult tenants on a range of options and give you the opportunity to choose your preference taking into account the impact these choices might have on the Council’s Housing Revenue Account (the Council rent income and expenditure budget).

 

 

Why your views matter

The Council is aware that for many tenants this year is possibly even more difficult with high inflation and a cost of living that is placing huge stresses on household finances notably around energy costs and the price of food. 

However, without a rent increase in April 2023, it will be impossible for the Council to continue to deliver the present level of service including its planned modernisation and new build programme. 

Taking this into consideration, this is your time to have your say on the proposed rent increases and what this means for you as a tenant.

A letter and questionnaire has been sent to all Council tenants. You can view a copy of this by clicking on the attached Rent Level Consultation letter below. 

Areas

  • All Areas

Audiences

  • East Lothian Council Tenants
  • Registered Tenant Organisations

Interests

  • Rent