Council house tenants in Forres and across Moray to be asked about rent increases

Council house tenants in Moray are being asked whether they would be willing to see their rents rise by an average of £2.79 per week.

Moray Council says its current average rents of £62.04 per week are the lowest of any local authority in Scotland.

They compare to a national average of £83.70 for local authorities and housing associations.

Moray Council is now asking tenants for their thoughts on three options:

• a 4.5% increase which would let the council speed up the delivery of its energy efficiency programme and also allow it to improve houses by replacing windows and doors as well as upgrading kitchens and bathrooms;
• a 3% increase which would maintain current funding levels;
• a 1.5% increase which is below the rate of inflation but would limit the money available to improve homes.

The council adds that an increase of 1.5% or 3% might mean larger rent rises in future years.

A spokesperson for Moray Council said: "We’re fully aware of the challenges many of our tenants continue to face due to the pandemic.

"We are therefore asking for their views.

"These will then inform the most appropriate rent-setting for the next financial year.

"The income from council house rents will continue to be reinvested in tenants’ homes, ensuring they’re modernised, safe and more energy efficient."

All tenants will soon receive a letter asking them to either complete an online survey or return the paper survey in the pre-paid envelope provided.

The consultation will end on January 14, with tenants informed at least four weeks in advance of any increase taking effect.