Spanish Congress Approves Housing Decree, Rejects Automatic Rent Renewal

The Spanish Congress Standing Committee approved a housing decree on Thursday, November 12, that includes protections for vulnerable families facing eviction, regulations on seasonal and room rentals, extensions of rental contracts, and caps on annual rent increases until 2027. The decree also sets limits on speculative purchases of housing, offers tax benefits for tenants and landlords, and provides public loans at 0% for mortgage down payments. However, the committee rejected another decree that proposed automatic renewal of rental contracts. The approval comes amidst a housing crisis and a general strike focused on housing issues.