DVFM Report – Tenant Satisfaction in New Affordable Housing 2022-2025

This is SHN’s first public report on tenant satisfaction in new developments. It shows exceptionally high levels of tenant satisfaction with recently completed affordable housing across Scotland. The findings are based on feedback from 413 tenants living in 723 new homes delivered by seven local authorities and nine registered social landlords between July 2022 and November 2025.

Across the 40 developments reviewed, 93% of tenants reported being very or fairly satisfied with their new home, with almost seven in ten saying they were very satisfied. Satisfaction with design and layout is particularly strong, with around 94–95% happy with internal and external design, and over 92% satisfied with space and usability. Most tenants also view their rent as affordable.
The report finds no link between higher development costs and higher tenant satisfaction. Instead, design quality, comfort, usability, and effective system performance emerge as the key drivers of positive tenant experiences. Clearer guidance on technology and heating systems is highlighted as an opportunity for improvement.

This first DVFM Tenant Satisfaction Report provides a strong platform for future analysis and supports landlords to enhance design choices and building performance.