FPÖ Calls for Immediate Revision of Flawed Rent Control Law

Vienna - The Freedom Party (FPÖ) has raised concerns over the recent implementation of a rent control measure, which they argue is deeply flawed and requires urgent amendments to effectively support tenants. The party's representatives, including General Secretary Michael Schnedlitz and housing spokesperson Michael Oberlechner, expressed their dismay at what they describe as a significant oversight by the current coalition government.

The recently passed rent control law, enacted by the National and Federal Councils, aims to halt rent increases for numerous existing leases in older buildings. However, Schnedlitz and Oberlechner assert that the law fails to address critical issues, particularly regarding the legal framework surrounding rent adjustments.

According to the FPÖ, while the law temporarily suspends rent increases tied to new leases and specific agreements, it neglects to account for contracts that utilize the consumer price index for adjustments instead of the established rent benchmarks. This oversight creates a loophole that could allow landlords to raise rents based on changes in the consumer price index, a situation that the lawmakers failed to anticipate.

Oberlechner noted that this flaw could impact approximately 50% of existing rental agreements within the scope of the rental law, leaving tenants vulnerable to unexpected rent hikes. He emphasized that the lack of clarity surrounding the law's provisions could lead to confusion among tenants, who might be unaware of their rights or the need to initiate legal proceedings to contest unjustified rent increases.

The FPÖ is urging the ruling parties to promptly rectify this legislative error. They argue that failure to do so would indicate a lack of genuine intent to assist tenants struggling with rising living costs. Schnedlitz criticized the coalition government, labeling their initial legislative efforts as a failure and calling for immediate elections to restore effective governance in Austria.

Furthermore, the FPÖ representatives pointed to the broader implications of the government's approach to housing policy, suggesting that the current administration's actions are a continuation of detrimental economic strategies established by the previous coalition. They called for a reassessment of the government's housing policies, arguing that immediate action is necessary to protect tenants and ensure fair rental practices.

As the debate continues, the FPÖ remains vocal about their commitment to advocating for tenant rights and challenging the government's handling of housing issues in Austria.