Highland Council has extended its rent review consultation deadline, giving council housing tenants until Monday 23 December to have their say on rent levels for 2025/26.
This annual consultation is a vital opportunity for tenants to influence decisions that directly affect the services the council can provide in the coming year and beyond.
Rent payments fund essential repairs, maintenance, and improvements to council properties, but rising costs mean careful planning is more important than ever.
Councillor Glynis Campbell Sinclair, Chair of the Housing and Property Committee, emphasised the importance of tenant feedback during challenging economic times.
“With household budgets under pressure, it’s crucial we hear from as many tenants as possible about rent levels,” she said.
“The extended deadline ensures everyone has the chance to share their views before the survey closes on 23 December.”
The feedback gathered will help inform the formal decision on rent levels, which is set to be made at the Housing and Property Committee meeting on Wednesday 29 January.
Tenants have been contacted by email, text message, or letter with details of the proposed rent increase options and instructions for completing the survey.
For those unable to complete the survey online, the council has provided a dedicated phone number to connect tenants with the tenant participation team during weekday office hours.
The council stresses that every response counts, as the cost of delivering housing services has risen sharply over the past year, making it essential to strike a balance between affordability for tenants and the resources needed to maintain and improve housing stock.
Further details about the consultation can be found on the council’s website, along with links to the survey, which is available online for quick and easy access.
Tenants are encouraged to take just a few minutes to participate and help shape the decisions that will impact council housing services across the Highlands.
For more information, visit the council’s consultation page or complete the survey directly at the provided link.
Alternatively, tenants can email tenant.participation@highland.gov.uk or call 07387 234107 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
This consultation offers tenants a key role in shaping the future of their homes and communities, ensuring their voices are heard in the decision-making process.
