Detailed in the Development Value for Money Report – Tenant Satisfaction in New Affordable Housing 2022-2025, the findings are based on feedback from 413 tenants living in 723 new homes delivered by seven local authorities and nine registered social landlords between July 2022 and November 2025.

Across the 40 developments reviewed, 93% of tenants reported being very or fairly satisfied with their new home, with almost seven in ten saying they were very satisfied. Satisfaction with design and layout is particularly strong, with around 94–95% happy with internal and external design, and over 92% satisfied with space and usability. Most tenants also view their rent as affordable.

Comfort and security also perform well: more than 91% feel comfortable in winter, and 92% feel secure in their home. Lighting is consistently rated highly, while soundproofing shows greater variation but remains satisfactory for most tenants.

The report finds no link between higher development costs and higher tenant satisfaction. Instead, design quality, comfort, usability and effective system performance emerge as the key drivers of positive tenant experiences. Clearer guidance on technology and heating systems is highlighted as an opportunity for improvement.

Andrea Finkel-Gates, chief executive at Scotland’s Housing Network, said: “These findings show just how much high‑quality design and thoughtful delivery matter to the people who live in our new affordable homes. It is incredibly encouraging to see such strong levels of satisfaction across Scotland, and especially to hear directly from tenants that comfort, usability and security are making a real difference in their day‑to‑day lives.

“This report gives landlords clear, practical insight into what works, and where better guidance on technology and heating systems can further improve the experience for tenants. As a sector, we now have a strong platform to build on—ensuring every new home we deliver not only meets funding and quality standards but genuinely supports people to thrive.”