We have the third lowest rents amongst Scottish local authorities with an average weekly rent of £70.90. On average our rents are 10.16% lower than other Scottish Local Authority Landlords.

Rent collection

In 2020/21 we collected 97.89% of the rent due to us and our rent collection remains strong. Our Housing Rents Team continue to secure more direct Universal Credit payments and pursue other tenant debt with the result that overall arrears reduced despite the impact of the pandemic.

We have developed new and innovative financial packages to help prevent tenants falling into the cycle of rent arrears:

• The Universal Credit Assistance Fund was introduced to mitigate the financial difficulties our tenants experience because of the built-in waiting times when applying for Universal Credit.
• The Rent Relief fund was introduced to help with the financial impact of the pandemic on tenants’ income.

As a result of these funds, we have reduced arrears for our tenants. In addition, our enhanced Income Maximisation service generated £10,925,862 for tenants and residents through Housing Benefit, Council Tax reduction, Discretionary Housing Benefit and other benefit awards.