Ministry plans: new steps in housing policy
Spain’s Minister for Housing and Urban Agenda Isabel Rodríguez has announced plans to present new government proposals regarding public housing. According to her, these measures aim to improve the legal framework regulating the use of state-owned real estate. While specific details have not yet been disclosed, the focus is on finding solutions for citizens facing housing difficulties, including vulnerable groups, workers, and middle-income families.
Rental challenges: the fate of Social Security-managed apartments
During the discussion, attention was given to residential properties owned by the General Directorate of Social Security. These apartments were built under the government of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero back in 2005. After the closure of the Public Rental Agency (SPA) under Mariano Rajoy’s administration, about 800 apartments ended up in unclear legal status. Some remain vacant, while others, occupied by residents, are put up for auction.
Residents note that the actions of various ministries are inconsistent: the housing department proclaims support for affordability, while agencies responsible for Social Security sell properties through auctions, leading to apartments ending up with large investors and funds.
Ministry’s position: the priority is preserving the state housing stock
Isabel Rodríguez emphasized that the ministry aims to keep as many properties as possible under state control to increase the availability of affordable housing. She noted that residents of these apartments had been offered the option to purchase their homes. She also pointed out that one of the key objectives is to return to the state housing stock those properties that were previously transferred to other entities or ended up in private hands.
At the end of last year, the government attempted to establish the necessary legal mechanisms through a special decree, but it was not approved by parliament. As a result, the ministry had to return properties step by step, including by working with the company Sareb. In the near future, plans are in place to restore control over other residential assets as well.
Legal nuances and next steps
The minister acknowledged that the lack of a clear legal framework complicates the management of certain properties, particularly apartments under the jurisdiction of social security. She assured that new initiatives aimed at addressing such issues would be submitted to the government this week. However, the issue regarding these specific apartments will not be addressed as part of the upcoming measures.
