Midlothian Council Launches Rent Consultation for 2026–2029
We are inviting all tenants and housing waiting list applicants to have their say on future council house rent levels for 2026/27–2028/29.
Give your views
Or come to a drop-in on:
- Danderhall library – Tuesday 4 November, 1pm – 3pm
- Penicuik library – Tuesday 18 November, 2pm – 4pm
- Dalkeith library – Thursday 13 November, 1pm – 3pm
- Newbattle library – Tuesday 25 November, 5pm – 7pm
Future options
The current rents, agreed in February 2023, will end on 31 March 2026. To plan ahead, the council is looking for views on options for future rents. These options will:
- Support continued investment in existing housing stock, including kitchen and bathroom upgrades.
- Influence the number of new council homes built beyond those already underway.
- Help meet the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH), a statutory requirement introduced by the Scottish Government to improve energy efficiency in social housing.
Rents pay for new housing
Meeting EESSH is essential and comes with an estimated cost of £169 million for Midlothian Council. Funding for new council housing does not come from council tax but from tenant rents and Scottish Government contributions, making tenant input vital.
Make your voice heard
Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “This consultation is an important opportunity for tenants and applicants to shape the future of council housing in Midlothian. Your views will help us balance affordability with the need to invest in homes, build new properties, and meet energy efficiency standards. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and make your voice heard.”
Until 5 December
The consultation runs from Monday 3 November to Friday 5 December 2025. Findings will be presented to elected members in February 2026, with any approved changes taking effect from 1 April 2026.