Generation Rent is calling for stronger action to control rents, arguing that they should be regulated in a similar way to energy prices. The tenants’ group believes a rent cap would ensure people pay a fairer price for their homes, particularly as the government’s current home-building targets will only bring gradual affordability improvements. Without intervention, rental prices will remain out of reach for those on lower incomes.

According to Generation Rent, government intervention is already standard in other essential markets, such as energy, where price caps protect consumers. “Just as there is an energy price cap to ensure fairer pricing for bills, it must be recognised that homes are essential and often unfairly priced,” the group explains…

Generation Rent: Tenants Need Stronger Protections Against Evictions

One of the biggest concerns raised by Generation Rent is that many tenants avoid making complaints or asserting their rights due to fear of eviction. The group argues that any long-term strategy to address the housing crisis must tackle both legal and illegal evictions. Measures should be in place to prevent forced moves from pushing renters into debt, poverty, or homelessness.

“If we cannot end evictions altogether, it is high time tenants were compensated for moves outside our control,” Generation Rent states. It also suggests that landlords who fail to meet safety and energy efficiency standards should be required to refund rent and face serious penalties or even banning orders.

Generation Rent Backs Rent Controls as a Solution to the Crisis

With upcoming regulations requiring landlords to improve the energy efficiency of rental properties, Generation Rent insists that tenants must be protected from unintended consequences, such as unjustified rent increases or evictions following government-funded improvements.

“The renting crisis will only end when people have access to social housing if they need it, home ownership if they want it, and a private rental sector that offers fair and attractive options,” the group states.

A recent survey found that 55% of tenants support rent controls, further reinforcing Generation Rent’s call for urgent reform.

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