Newly published statistics to the end of June 2026 revealed there were just over 17,000 new homes built and 15,500 homes started in the twelve months ending June 2026. Compared with the previous twelve-month period, newbuild completions fell 11% and starts fell 2%. Completions were at their lowest level since 2015 and starts since 2013.

The private sector completed nearly 13,600 homes and started around 11,800. Annual completions fell 7%, and starts fell 8%, with starts at their lowest level since 2013.

The social sector completed nearly 3,500 homes and started around 3,700. Annual completions fell 25%, while starts rose 26% from a record low base the previous year. Completions were the lowest since 2007.

In the year to June 2026, the Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP) delivered around 6,600 approvals, 7,100 starts and 6,800 completions. 

Annual increases were reported for approvals (42% increase) and starts (34% increase); however, these increases were from a low base reported the previous year.

As of June 2026, just over 36,500 homes had been delivered towards the 110,000 affordable housing target by 2032 — 77% social rent, 14% affordable rent, and 8% affordable home ownership.

Responding to statistics, social justice and housing secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “The Scottish Government continues to deliver on affordable housing – with approvals up 42% and starts increasing by 34% compared to last year. Overall since 2007 we have helped deliver 147,000 affordable homes – with 72% for social rent.

“Scotland continues to lead the rest of the UK in relative housebuilding with 35 homes per 10,000 population delivered in 2024–25, the highest rate in the UK. We have also delivered 45% more affordable homes than England and 69% more than Wales, per head of population.

“However, we know there is more to do – that is why we are providing record investment of up to £4.9 billion over the next four years to support delivery of around 36,000 affordable homes - providing a warm, safe home for up to 24,000 children. We are determined to help drive improvements in the private sector, including through our work with the Scottish National Investment Bank.

“Our new agency More Homes Scotland will also bring simplicity, scale and an all-tenure approach to supporting housebuilding - enhancing delivery and maximising savings.”