Senate extends rent control experiment

The Senate has voted to extend the rent control experiment in Lyon and Villeurbanne for two more years, until 2028, but the measure now needs approval from the National Assembly before November 23. Without approval, the program will automatically end on that date.

Amendment allows local resistance to exit

Amendment 48, included in the proposed text, could allow municipalities to resist a potential decision by their metropolitan area to leave the rent control program. This could impact local discussions, as the Lyon Metropolitan Area executive wants to end the program.

BAIL association seeks to keep program alive

Antoine Launois, from the Brigade associative inter-locataires (BAIL) association, explains that the amendment is not a veto but requires a ministerial commitment based on municipal requests. The BAIL association aims to convince the metropolitan executive, especially Véronique Sarcelli, to keep the program active.

Rent control has had measurable effects

According to Launois, the rent control program has led to a 2 to 4 percent reduction in rents and average reimbursements of 2,000 euros for tenants. However, a third of rental offers in Lyon and Villeurbanne exceed the controlled rent ceiling, and the association wants more permanent and stronger enforcement.

Concerns about rent increases loom

The BAIL association warns that if the program ends after November 23, rents could rise sharply, especially affecting vulnerable households. Some agencies are already preparing for the program’s possible end by requesting rent increases from tenants. Launois argues that rent regulation and housing construction can coexist to create sustainable solutions.

Amendment included in pending text

The text currently being discussed in Parliament includes the amendment allowing municipalities to oppose a decision by their metropolitan area to exit the program. The Senate has already approved it, and the National Assembly must now vote on the text before November 23. The BAIL association is content with the temporary extension but feels the measure does not go far enough.