The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has today hailed the achievement of Scottish housing associations and co-operatives investing in their homes in order to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS).

The SHQS, set by the Scottish Government for all housing association and council homes in Scotland, set standards around repair, modern facilities (kitchens and bathrooms) and energy efficiency.

Housing minister Margaret Burgess visited tenants from Melville Housing Association in Dalkeith today who had benefitted from investment in their homes.

David Stewart, SFHA policy manager, said: “Melville Housing Association is an excellent example of an association that has invested in its homes in order to meet the standard, making a real difference to the lives of its tenants.

“With fuel poverty on the rise and fuel prices rising above inflation in recent years, we know it is vital that momentum is maintained and funds invested in Scotland’s homes.

“While housing associations have the most energy efficient homes by tenure in Scotland, we also house people on low incomes, so investing to reduce fuel bills is essential.”

The SHQS has now been replaced by a further quality standard, the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH).

Mr Stewart added: “We know from experience of the SHQS that setting minimum standards can help drive investment. While the SFHA and its members welcome the intention of the Scottish Government in setting EESSH – to reduce tenants’ fuel bills and reduce carbon emissions – it is important that landlords receive financial support to invest in their homes. This is why the SFHA is about to publish a report on associations’ experience of energy efficiency funding.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our members, our partners and the Scottish Government on improving the standards and energy efficiency of Scotland’s homes.”