The housing affordability issue has resurfaced in Spain: the Sumar party has ramped up pressure on its government partners, demanding the immediate adoption of a decree to extend rental contracts. According to politicians’ estimates, the measure could protect around 300,000 families whose leases are set to expire in the coming months. The main goal of the initiative is to prevent a sharp increase in prices and ensure stability for tenants over the next three years.
In a situation where housing costs in several regions significantly exceed local residents’ incomes, Sumar proposes a five-year deferral for so-called ‘high-pressure’ zones. In these areas, rent is becoming unaffordable for most families, and the real estate market continues to show a steady trend toward rising prices.
Political disputes and the struggle for the initiative
For months, the issue of extending rental contracts has been a sticking point between coalition partners. Although Sumar put forward a draft decree last autumn, its progress has stalled. Negotiations are continuing within the government, but there are no public results yet. Sumar representatives insist that without decisive action to regulate the real estate market, the chances of maintaining voters’ trust are rapidly diminishing.
The Ministry responsible for housing policy is headed by a PSOE representative. However, it is the ministry’s initiatives that have frequently sparked disagreements among coalition partners. According to recent polls, housing is one of the top concerns for Spaniards, and the authorities can no longer afford to ignore this challenge.
Price regulation and resistance from the regions
Among Sumar’s additional proposals is the temporary introduction of rent controls until tension zones are officially designated. However, most autonomous communities governed by the Partido Popular (PP) refuse to implement provisions of the housing law passed in 2023. This further complicates the reform’s implementation at the national level.
Sumar emphasizes that the situation requires immediate intervention, or thousands of families will be left vulnerable. They believe extending rental agreements is not only a way to protect citizens, but also a measure to prevent a massive price surge in the market.
Legislative initiatives and outlook
Alongside the decree discussions, Sumar is pushing a bill in parliament aimed at restricting the purchase of housing by large investment funds and firms specializing in speculation. Lawmakers are also considering legislation to regulate short-term rentals and room leasing, though its prospects remain unclear due to resistance from several political groups.
The country’s Deputy Prime Minister emphasizes that without resolving the housing issue, it is impossible to speak about Spain’s future. She urges coalition partners to expedite the adoption of necessary measures to prevent further escalation in the real estate market.
Social justice and challenges for the government
Amid growing public discontent and judicial and political scandals diverting attention from social issues, Sumar insists on the need for deeper reforms. According to party representatives, only proactive state intervention can protect citizens’ interests and restore trust in the government.
In the coming weeks, the fate of the rent extension decree will become one of the key issues for the Spanish government. Whether the coalition manages to reach an agreement will affect not only the well-being of hundreds of thousands of families, but also the country’s political stability.
