Housing Need and Demand Assessment (HNDA) A Managers Guide (2026)

What is an HNDA?

2.1 An HNDA estimates the number of additional housing units needed to meet existing and future housing need where the existing stock cannot do that. It also captures information on the operation of the housing system to assist local authorities to develop policies on new housing supply, management of existing stock and the provision of specialist housing and housing-related services.

2.2 Its purpose is to provide a robust, shared and agreed evidence-base for housing policy and land use planning and to ensure that both LHSs and LDPs are based upon a common understanding of existing and future housing requirements.

2.3 Where the Scottish Government is satisfied that the HNDA is robust and credible, the approach used will not normally be considered further at and LDP Examination.