Thinktank calls for ‘double lock’ England private rent cap to ease living costs
Summary
A thinktank linked to the Labour government suggests putting limits on private rent increases in England to help with rising living costs. The plan would allow rent to rise only as much as wages or inflation, whichever is lower, and aims to make rents more affordable soon.Key Facts
- The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) recommends a “double lock” rent cap tied to wages or inflation.
- 2.4 million people in the UK currently pay more than 30% of their income on rent, which is considered unaffordable.
- A rent freeze idea was considered but rejected by the government.
- New buildings would be exempt from rent caps for 10 years to encourage construction.
- Landlords who improve their properties significantly could raise rents above the cap.
- The IPPR suggests increasing housing benefits by £600 million annually to help cover low rents.
- To prevent landlords from switching to short-term rentals like Airbnbs, the plan includes new rules and limits on rented nights.
- The IPPR has shared these proposals with government departments including the Treasury and housing ministry.
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