The same increase will apply to garages, lockups, and temporary accommodation. The increase will mean Fife Council’s average weekly rent will be £97.73 going forward.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, housing spokesperson, said that although introducing an increase in the current financial climate was a challenging decision, it was a necessary step to protect Fife’s already stretched housing services.

“Quality housing is vital, especially during a housing emergency. Everyone deserves a warm, safe and affordable home, particularly those on the lowest incomes. Our responsibility is to ensure no one is left behind and that every tenant in Fife can live with security and dignity.”

Tenants were consulted on the affordability of any rise and shared their views on rent levels and priorities - such as continuing home improvements, building more council homes and increasing energy efficiency.

Cllr Hamilton added: “Any rent uplift must be set at a level that allows us to meet these priorities while safeguarding essential services. A 5.5% increase is required to maintain stability and support ongoing investment.

“The Fife Living Rent makes sure our rent levels remain below the local authority average, below housing association rents, and significantly below private market rents.

“To further support tenants, we have in place a £1.4 million Tenant Support Fund which will directly help approximately 27% of tenants who receive no housing benefit or Universal Credit support. It also is available to address fuel poverty so no tenant should have to choose between heating and eating.”

An additional £13.056m of capital investment was also approved, to help maintain council housing across Fife.