Future rent charges for council houses will have an impact on the continuing investment in the council’s existing housing and also determine the level of any continuing new building programme commitment.

The council will present a range of rent increase options, each linked to different levels of investment in housing and energy efficiency upgrades.

The consultation will take place over winter, inviting feedback from all current tenants and also applicants on the council’s waiting list.

The proposed rent strategy follows the conclusion of the current Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) plan and is designed to support:

• Potential expansion of the council’s new build programme, which currently includes 643 new homes planned between 2026/27 and 2030/31.
• Continued compliance with the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2).
• Ongoing maintenance of existing homes in line with the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS).

As of March 2025, Midlothian Council owns 7,677 homes. The council has carried out a new housing build programme since 2006 and continues to invest in housing but demand remains high, with 6,360 households currently on the waiting list.

In order to address housing need, the supply of affordable housing across all tenures needs to increase whilst investment is also made to existing houses to continue to meet with the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) and compliance with the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH).

Midlothian Council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Stuart McKenzie, said: “This consultation is a vital opportunity for tenants and applicants to shape the future of council housing in Midlothian. We are committed to ensuring rents remain fair and affordable while continuing to invest in quality homes and services.”

The findings of the consultation will inform a final report with recommendations to be presented to the council in February 2026.