Aberdeen City Council is currently in the process of considering a significant rent increase for its tenants. Under the proposed plan, rent could potentially go up by 10% for the 2025/26 period, with the possibility of further increases in the following years. Additionally, there may be delays in kitchen and bathroom upgrades, with extended lifespans for these facilities being considered.
Tenants are being encouraged to participate in a consultation to provide their feedback on the proposed changes. This includes adjustments to the rent structure for properties with two or more bedrooms, a 15% rent increase for new build homes starting in April 2025, and an overall rent increase of up to 10%. The consultation will also explore the impact of extending the lifespan of kitchens and bathrooms.
To facilitate this process, four drop-in sessions will be held to assist tenants in completing the consultation, which is open until November 3 and can be accessed on the Aberdeen City Council website. The council, which manages over 23,000 homes in the city, uses the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to allocate funds for property repairs and upgrades.
Councillor Miranda Radley, the Convener of Aberdeen City Council’s communities, housing, and public protection committee, emphasized the importance of tenant participation in the consultation. She acknowledged the challenges that tenants face and the potential consequences of rent increases, urging all tenants to share their views on the proposed changes.
In related news, Aberdeen City Council recently declared a housing emergency in the city and has been addressing issues with RAAC-affected properties in the Balnagask area of Torry. As the council continues to navigate these housing challenges, tenant feedback on the rent increase proposals will play a crucial role in shaping future decisions and policies.
