Beyond affordability: What tenants want from rent controls

The research shows that renters want rent controls that make a difference, but that aren’t so tough on landlords that they feel forced to sell-up.

The report is published amidst growing political attention to the policy, with both the UK Labour party and London Mayor Sadiq Khan committed to the policy.

The key lessons in the report include:

• There is strong support for rent controls among the tenants we spoke to. They want the policy to address the key problems they face: insecurity, powerlessness and high rents.
• Fairness and security are higher priorities than saving money. Renters aren’t motivated simply by a desire to reduce the cost of their rent. They prioritise having fair and transparent rules for the level of rent; a chance for greater security in their home; and a system that is fair for both tenants and landlords.
• Renters are pragmatic and worried about unintended consequences. They want a rent control policy that goes far enough to make a noticeable difference, but are concerned by unintended consequences such as any proposals causing landlords to sell up. To win support for any rent control plans, politicians must think through implementation and take steps to mitigate any adverse impacts on private renters themselves.