Tenants know rent controls push out landlords – but still want them
Summary
A SpareRoom survey of 5,607 tenants found strong support for rent controls, even among many who accept that such measures could reduce landlord numbers and push rents higher over time. The article links tenant support to recent rent increases and affordability pressures, particularly in London, and argues that controls would not address the underlying supply shortage.
Why it matters
For residential property surveyors, the article highlights ongoing rental market pressure and policy debate that can affect investor sentiment, landlord supply, and valuation assumptions in the private rented sector. It also signals continued affordability stress and potential market distortion risks that may influence local rental evidence and housing demand.
Key points
- 67% of UK renters reported rent increases in the past 12 months.
- 70% of London renters reported rent increases in the past 12 months.
- 32% of UK renters and 35% of London renters said they moved because rent became unaffordable.
- Many tenants support rent controls even if fewer landlords remain in the sector.
- The article argues that rent controls would not resolve the underlying supply issue.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
