Statistics from the Scottish Government showed that work started on 14,955 properties – falling by 4% from the previous year to the lowest figure since 2012-13, The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire) reports. 

The statistics also revealed that 17,268 houses were delivered in 2025/26, down by 10% from the previous year, amounting to the lowest figure since 2016-17, with the exception of the years when COVID-19 caused restrictions in the construction industry. 

Richard Meade, chief executive of the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, said: “Despite Scotland last month entering the third year of its housing emergency, today’s statistics show that housing completions continue to falter while more families wait in desperate need of a safe, warm and affordable home.”

Out of the Scottish Government’s plans of delivering 110,000 affordable homes by 2032, 35,368 homes have currently been completed.

In 2025, work started on 7,421 new affordable homes. Figures showed that 6,832 properties were completed – such as homes for social rent by councils or housing associations, as well as homes for affordable rent or ownership.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The Scottish Government is delivering on our record investment of up to £4.9 billion over the next four years – which will support delivery of around 36,000 affordable homes, providing a warm, safe home for up to 24,000 children.”