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Could new tenants' rights usher in rent controls? Here's why that wouldn't necessarily be a positive

Jan David Bakker and Nikhil Datta


The new Renters' Rights Act introduces provisions to protect tenants in England against rent increases. While the UK government says it "does not support the introduction of rent controls", the act does allow tenants to appeal rent increases if they are above market rents. Only time will tell whether the act introduces rent control through the back door.

Among economists, rent controls are controversial. They have the potential for unintended consequences - including, ultimately, housing shortages.


21 November 2025


The Conversation


https://theconversation.com/could-new-tenants-rights-usher-in-rent-controls-heres-why-that-wouldnt-necessarily-be-a-positive-268827

This Blog is published under the centre's Neighbourhoods programme.

This publication comes under the following theme: Housing