Scottish housing survey highlights diverging tenant needs

The latest Scottish Housing Survey underscores the distinct roles played by the private rented sector (PRS) and social housing in Scotland, a property expert says.

David Alexander, the chief executive officer of DJ Alexander Scotland, says the survey highlights the need for a housing system that caters to the diverse needs and aspirations of its residents.

The survey reveals significant disparities between the two sectors.

While the number of owner-occupiers increased, the PRS saw a substantial growth of 175%, surpassing the social rented sector, which experienced a 15% decline.

PRS serves a different market

Mr Alexander said: “What this data shows is that the PRS – rather than replacing social housing – actually serves a very different market.

“The people living in the PRS are much younger, tend to be better paid, and more mobile than those in social housing.

“They work, they travel, they are more likely to come from another culture and they are not seeking a lifelong home in the PRS but are using it for employment, for convenience, and for lifestyle reasons.”

He added: “Whereas the social housing sector is much more likely to be occupied by older people, seeking a permanent home in the sector, who are not working or seeking work, and may be looking after an elderly or sick relative, they will also probably come from the area they are currently living in.”

Private tenants are under 34

The survey shows that 52% of private tenants are under 34 – while 81% of social housing residents are aged 35 and over.

Employment rates also differed significantly, with 66% of PRS tenants employed compared to just 39% in social housing.

The survey also highlights cultural and mobility differences.

The PRS housed a larger proportion of non-Scottish, non-white tenants (20%) compared to social housing (7%).

Also, 56% of PRS tenants had lived in their current property for two years or less, while 33% of social housing tenants had lived in their homes for more than 11 years.

Tenant satisfaction within the PRS

The survey also revealed higher tenant satisfaction within the PRS with 88% of tenants saying they are managing or getting by financially.

That compares with 81% in social housing.

Mr Alexander also emphasized the need for a housing system that ‘works in harmony’ to ensure adequate and appropriate housing for all parts of the Scottish community.

He cautioned against the ‘false and unrealistic notion’ that social housing is inherently superior to private rental options.

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