The French government is considering ending long-term social housing leases for tenants who have significantly exceeded income limits. The Minister of Housing, Guillaume Kasbarian, wants to require social housing providers to regularly evaluate the personal, financial, and asset situations of tenants in social housing. He questions the fairness of denying entry to those in need of social housing while some current tenants no longer meet the criteria due to changes in their circumstances. Kasbarian emphasizes the need to reconsider whether tenants who have exceeded income limits, inherited wealth, or own second homes should continue occupying social housing.
Currently, social housing tenants in France must annually report their economic situation through a “resources survey.” If their income exceeds a certain threshold, their landlord can increase their rent, and in some cases, refuse to renew their lease if their income is even higher. These measures are expected to be included in a proposed legislation aimed at promoting housing for the middle class, to be presented to the Cabinet in May and to the Senate for review in June. The proposed law would also grant more power to mayors in allocating social housing and deciding on sales.
The government aims to maintain the target of 20 to 25% social housing in municipalities under the SRU law, which promotes solidarity and urban renewal. However, the government also plans to incorporate intermediate housing with higher rents in the tools available to municipalities lacking social housing to address the shortfall. Minister Kasbarian highlighted the government’s goal of encouraging mayors to build more housing rather than giving free rein to those who are unwilling to construct new units.
The proposed legislation would also give mayors more say in social housing allocations and sales, as well as introducing measures to encourage the construction of new homes in areas where social housing is lacking. Kasbarian emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between social housing and encouraging local authorities to promote construction. The government’s focus is on addressing housing shortages and ensuring access to affordable housing for all segments of the population. The proposed changes aim to better manage social housing resources and ensure that housing assistance reaches those who need it most.
