Tenants have said they are having difficulty affording their rent and fear it will get even worse.

A new survey by the Scottish Housing Regulator shows rising rents, energy prices and food inflation are all leading to financial problems for households.

The research found three-quarters of tenants said they were worse off than a year ago.

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It found more than eight out of 10 were worried about rents rising even further in the coming years.

The National Panel of Tenants and Service Users report showed 83% worried about the future affordability of rent mainly due to future increases.

Almost one in three (31%) said the level of rent was the main factor in difficulty affording to pay.

Another 32% said the cost of heating their home was the main issue while 5% said food prices were the biggest problem.

Almost two in three (59%) were worried that future rent rises would cause more problems, while 15% said income changes would be an issue and 9% were worried about benefit changes.

Helen Shaw, director of regulation for the Scottish Housing Regulator, said: "Our work with the National Panel is an important way for us to better understand the priorities, concerns and thoughts of tenants and service users of social landlords in Scotland.

“This year's report once again highlights that tenants are facing a significant cost-of-living challenges and that pressures on household finances have heightened. We hope the research is helpful to anyone with an interest in our work."

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People reported having difficulty paying bills and many were unable to save money.

The survey found 66% either disagreed or strongly disagreed that they were able to save money most months.

Only 7% said they strongly agreed and 27% agreed they could save money.

 

Meanwhile, 35% said they often have to miss paying a bill and unexpected household expenses caused difficulty and stress for 73%.

And the cost-of-living crisis is affecting family life with 43% reporting money worries having a bad effect on relationships with family and friends.