Edinburgh Council has announced it will no longer act as factor in buildings where it is the minority owner.

The final decision will be made at the upcoming housing committee meeting on 1 June.

The City of Edinburgh Council is currently the minority owner in several blocks of flats: Maidencraig Court (7.14%), Westfield Court (34.04%), Coillesdene House (17.07%), and several blocks in Saunders Street in Stockbridge.

Westfield Court, which is currently embroiled in a row over its future, will not be impacted, with the Council remaining as the factor.

A significant reason behind the recommendations is the several number of roles the Council plays in high-rise blocks.

The report states: “The City of Edinburgh Council acts in four capacities within high-rise blocks.

“These are as local authority, landlord, property factor, and co-owner.

“These multiple roles have led to confusion amongst private owners regarding responsibilities, particularly in relation to repairs and maintenance where the Council is the minority owner in the block.

“It is the opinion of officers that a detailed review of how we provide a factoring service is required.

“Further, officers are of the opinion that the Council are currently not suitably equipped or resourced to provide factoring service to blocks where we are in the minority ownership, nor would it be financially viable or effective for the Council to continue to provide the current factoring service in these blocks.”

The Council confirmed on Friday that it would remain as the landlord in properties it owns, even if it will no longer be the factor.

It would kickstart a six month process with the Council having to find a private factor for the buildings, meaning the building would “never be without a factor”, according to an officer.

The head of high-rise management and investment at the council said the decision may mean there could “be a positive impact from bringing in a dedicated factor”.

The decision is subject to a vote by councillors at the upcoming housing committee.

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