Rent controls..good or bad?

Private rents are becoming increasingly more expensive across the UK, that is a statement of fact, would the introduction of rent controls solve the problem though?

Figures recently released by the Office for National Statistics suggest that rents paid to private landlords in the UK have increased by 2.5 per cent over the last year,  this rise was more marked in London where rents have  risen by 3.8 per cent year-on-year

According to new calculations by GLA Conservative Andrew Boff, the introduction of rent controls would take money out of the private rental sector and lead to 84,228 less homes available in England in the next ten years, in London that figure would be 51,205 less homes.

GLA Conservatives housing spokesman, Andrew Boff reportedly said:Housing experts recently gave evidence to a committee at City Hall and demolished the idea of rent controls. It may sound like a popular policy but the experts exposed that it is economically illiterate.

“Nobody wants to see high rents but these controls will result in less of an incentive to build new homes for the private sector, would reduce supply and may have the unintended consequences of raising rents to the imposed limit.

“Landlords are average people buying these homes from their savings, they are not evil corporations. According to my calculations tens of thousands of homes will disappear from the private rented sector if this folly goes ahead.”

Allen Walkey

Highly experienced businessman with a successful career in property sales and investment both in the UK and abroad. Now a freelance writer and blogger for the property and Investment Industry, keeping readers up-to-date with changes and events in a rapidly changing world.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Minister Accepts Supply-Demand Pressures Increasing Rents

In response to comments by Treasury Minister, Emma Reynolds MP, that rental prices “are ultimately determined by the total supply of housing, relative to demand”, Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “The Minister is right. Rents are going up because there are simply not enough properties to meet demand, and…
Read More
Breaking News

The Property Redress annual report

50% of cases resolved through early resolution despite 20% rise in complaints, 56% increase in amount awarded for decisions and 31% rise in agency expulsions  The annual report on complaints received against their property agent members by Property Redress is released today. In its eleventh year, the report from the UK’s largest lettings redress provider…
Read More
Breaking News

Foxtons Full Year Results 2024

47% earnings growth1 driven by significant Sales market share gains2 and strong returns from Lettings acquisitions. Next phase of the growth plan now firmly in focus. Foxtons Group plc (LSE:FOXT) (“the Group” or “Foxtons”) has delivered another year of growth. Strengthened operational capabilities, combined with strong returns from Lettings acquisitions, have underpinned 47% earnings growth. The Group…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

What is commonhold? What estate agents need to know

Mark Chick, director of ALEP and a Partner at Bishop & Sewell LLP On Monday 3 March, the government published a Commonhold White Paper and announced plans to bring the sale of new leasehold flats to an end. So what does this mean for the sale of leasehold properties, both now and over the next…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

Roller Garage Doors: 7 Essential Buying Tips.

Roller garage doors vary in quality, design, and the components used. Recognising these variations is essential when making a purchase, as it ensures you choose a product that provides long-term benefits. Here are seven key factors to consider: 1. Environmental Impact For superior insulation, sectional garage doors may be a better option, even though roller…
Read More
Breaking News

Glenigan Construction Index: Pockets of regional resilience, do little to offset faltering confidence

The value of underlying work starting on-site during the three months to February decreased 6% and remained 17% below 2024 levels as activity remains relatively stagnant Lowered expectations on economic recovery dent residential construction, with starts down 10% on the preceding three months, slashed by 14% against 2024 figures Non-residential project starts decreased 2% against…
Read More