West Lothian Council tenants to be asked their views on 3.5% rent rise

West Lothian tenants are being asked their views on rent rises planned for next year.

An annual rent rise of 3.5% per year was agreed over a five-year period in 2023, and tenants will be asked to green light the rise which will take the average rent over the £90 a week mark for the first time.

The council’s Executive is set to approve the two-month survey when it meets tomorrow [Tuesday], councillors on the Housing Services PDSP heard.

The average weekly rent for homes is projected to be £92.26 in 2026/27, up from £89.14 in 2025/26. For garages, the weekly rent will rise to £6.94 in 2026/27, up from £6.71 in 2025/26.

With difficult budget decisions looming the 3.5% increase could be the only guaranteed rise come April.

Two years ago the SNP opposition group argued in its budget propo