Spanish Government Proposes Two-Year Rental Extension for Contracts Expiring Before June 2028

• The Spanish government has announced a new housing package allowing tenants whose contracts expire before June 30, 2028, to request an extraordinary two-year extension.
• Landlords are prohibited from raising rent prices for tenants who utilize this extension.
• The measure is expected to benefit nearly 4 million people and 1.5 million households.

Policy Details and Background

• The initiative, championed by the Sumar group within the coalition government, follows a similar model to the previously failed "burofax decree."
• The current proposal extends the eligibility window by six months compared to previous iterations.
• Beyond standard rental extensions, the decree includes new regulations for seasonal and room rentals aimed at preventing fraudulent practices.

Criticism and Future Steps

• Housing rights advocates have criticized the proposal for failing to reinstate the eviction moratorium that expired in February, which has led to widespread displacement.
• The government intends to negotiate the decree with other parliamentary groups to prevent it from being rejected in the next session.
• Proposed additions include new measures to protect vulnerable families and ensure they are not left without alternative housing options.