Rent prices are out of control. We’re calling on the government to implement Rent Controls Now. Rent controls are an urgent measure to reduce the stress that too many New Zealanders face due to exorbitant and unjustified rent increases.
For the last ten years rent prices have been increasing faster than incomes. That means rent makes up a larger portion of renters incomes, making escaping the broken rental market harder than ever.
We can’t keep up with these unjustified rent price hikes. But we could keep them under control. We’re calling on the Government to limit rent increases based on meaningful improvements made to the property and inflation.
You have to work for your raise, and your landlord should too. In this market landlords have no incentive to improve, or even maintain your home. If the Government believes everyone deserves a warm, dry, safe and affordable home, they must implement rent controls.
Our demands
- Limit rent increases to no more than inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the preceding 12 months.
- Allow reasonable and proportionate rent increases above CPI where significant improvements have been made to the quality or facilities of the home – beyond ordinary maintenance. Such improvements would not include those made in order for the property to comply with minimum standards.
- Prevent unreasonable rent hikes between tenancies by requiring the landlord to set rent within a reasonable range of the previous rent charged for that property (except where significant improvements beyond normal maintenance have been made) and inform incoming tenants in writing of the rent paid by the previous tenants.
Sign the petition now
Watch our webinar on rent controls
Featuring PSA National Secretary Erin Polaczuk, Honourable Minister Marama Davidson, Renters United spokesperson Ashok Jacob and University of Auckland PhD candidate in Sociology, Jordan King.
Rent controls work.
The number of studies that suggest that rent controls work is growing. Let’s not forget, also, that rents were frozen across the board last year as an emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It proved that the state can use its power to protect the vulnerable in times of crisis. We’re asking for the housing crisis to be taken with the same seriousness as the pandemic.
Not convinced? Or need help convincing someone else? You can check out our FAQ’s here.
What’s your story?
Share your renters stories! If you want to share your story lets us know. We are a grassroots organisation; we’re stronger together. Share your story with us here.
Make a donation
We’re building a movement throughout Aotearoa and we need your help to make sure we reach as many people as we can! If you can, please donate now here so together we can make our demand for rent control visible across Aotearoa.
Authorised by: Robert Whitaker, 17 Tavistock Road, Wellington 6023