Applying for a mid-market rent

Mid-market rents are a type of home available only to households on low to moderate incomes. They're usually cheaper than private rent and more expensive than social housing.

You have to meet certain criteria to apply. 

They're usually provided by housing associations or councils.

Check if you're eligible

Each housing provider has different rules for who can apply for mid-market rent. You usually need to have a job and a low to moderate household income. 

Housing providers usually consider your whole household income. Any benefits or pensions you receive count towards your income. If you’ll be living with a partner or other adults their income counts too. 

Your income and the size of your household may affect how many bedrooms you can apply for. 

Check a few providers to see if you could be eligible, because they can have very different income requirements.

When you'll get priority

There are sometimes other criteria used to decide who gets priority for mid-market rented homes. For example, you could get priority if:

• you already rent from a housing association

• you rent privately and you cannot afford your rent

• your current home is overcrowded

• your current home is unsuitable – for example, if it's causing you health problems or you need disability adaptations

Where to find a mid-market rent

Mid-market rented homes are usually provided by housing associations and councils. They're sometimes advertised on websites like Rightmove.

Search online for mid-market rent in your area, or contact the council’s housing department and ask for a list of mid-market rent providers. Find your council's website on mygov.scot.

How to apply

You’ll have to fill in an application form with details about yourself and anyone who will be living with you.

Ask the housing provider for an application form if you cannot find it on their website.

You’ll usually also be asked for:

• a copy of your passport, driving licence or other ID

• proof of your income, such as payslips or bank statements

• proof of your current address, such as utility bills

• references from current or previous landlords

You can also include details of any circumstances that affect your housing needs or finances. For example, if you have caring responsibilities or access requirements that mean you need a certain type of home.

If you’re offered a home

With a mid-market rent, you'll get a private residential tenancy. This gives you different rights than a social tenancy, but you still have strong rights. 

Private residential tenancies are open-ended, which means there's no end date.

You’ll usually need to pay a tenancy deposit of 1 or 2 months’ rent. This must be protected in a deposit scheme.

Check your other housing options

You can try:

• applying for a social home - the waiting time depends on where you apply and your housing needs, but anyone can apply

• looking for a private rented home - you’ll usually pay a higher rent, but you might be able to find a home more quickly