Renters’ support for rent controls is about more than saving money
New Fabian Society research reveals that renters’ support for rent controls is motivated by more than just saving money, with the results suggesting private renters want rent regulation to tackle insecurity and unfair treatment.
Beyond Affordability, a Fabian Society report published in partnership with housing and homeless charity Shelter, lays out a framework for politicians seeking to implement a rent control policy. It presents the priorities and concerns of renters themselves, gathered through a series of six in-depth focus groups held across England. 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.