Senate extends rent control

The French Senate has approved a two-year extension of rent control measures, a move that has been praised by the mayor of Montpellier, Michaël Delafosse.

Mayor supports rent control

Delafosse, who also serves as president of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, described the extension as "excellent news, particularly in this difficult context for purchasing power." He highlighted the importance of the policy in protecting thousands of tenants, especially students and young households, from sudden rent increases.

Rent control effectiveness

According to the 6th barometer of the Foundation for Housing, published in early September, the share of rental listings exceeding the regulatory rent limits was 37% in 2022 but had dropped to 12% by 2025. This rate is below the national average of 37% and also lower than in other major cities such as Bordeaux, Lille, and Lyon-Villeurbanne.

Montpellier's lower exceedance

In Montpellier, the average amount of rent exceedances recorded is 63 € per month, significantly less than the 171 € in Paris or 122 € in Bordeaux. This suggests that rent control policies are having a measurable impact in reducing excessive rent increases.

Future of rent control

Delafosse noted that the current data indicates rent control helps limit housing tensions. He emphasized that the extension allows for a full assessment of the policy but cautioned that it cannot be an end in itself. He remains committed to advocating for the continuation of rent control and supporting cities that wish to implement similar measures.