Private rented markets in Spain and housing affordability

Abstract

The Spanish housing system historically has been characterised by an imbalance in tenure in favour of homeownership and a social housing stock that is either residual or completely neglected. Currently, the private rented sector represents the most interesting alternative for alleviating the lack of affordable housing available in the country. Simultaneously, tenants living in rented accommodation are experiencing excessive housing burden costs. Policy intervention is required to palliate the negative effects of this situation based on the right to the city and the right to housing principles.