Government survey reveals vast majority of Scottish households satisfied with housing

The vast majority of Scottish households are satisfied with their housing, with a majority saying that they’re “very satisfied”, according to new Scottish Government figures.

The annual Scottish Household Survey for 2017 found that over nine in ten households (92%) were very or fairly satisfied with their housing, with 56% being very satisfied and 36% being fairly satisfied.

The survey also reveals that the proportion of households in the private rented sector has plateaued at 15% after a decade of growth.

The private rented sector grew steadily from 5% in 1999 to 15% in 2016, but has remained around 15% in 2017.

The social rented sector declined from 32% in 1999 to 23% in 2007, and has remained around this level since then.

Whilst the proportion of owner occupied homes in 2017 is at a similar level to 1999, there has been an increase in those owning outright and a decrease in those buying with a mortgage throughout this time period.

In 2017, half of owner occupier properties (owned outright and buying with a mortgage) are located in the 40% least deprived areas of Scotland, whilst only 12% are in the 20% most deprived areas.

Private rented properties are located fairly evenly across deprivation areas.

For social rented properties, three-quarters (75%) are located in the 40% most deprived areas, with only 2% in the 20% least deprived areas of Scotland.

Commenting on the survey results, Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “The Scottish Household Survey is a unique opportunity for people to share their views and experiences and help government to understand the issues affecting communities.

“This year’s results show that many people are managing well financially and the majority are happy with their neighbourhoods and local services but we can see that inequalities remain. We are working to reduce poverty and social exclusion through a range of actions across government including investing £125 million this year alone to mitigate the very worst effects of UK Government welfare cuts and protect those on low incomes. These findings will help us continue to make decisions to shape a fair and inclusive Scotland for everyone.”