Spain's housing decree stalls as Junts demands landlord tax breaks

The Spanish government’s emergency rent‑extension decree (Real Decreto‑ley 8/2026), which would have let tenants request a two‑year rent freeze with a maximum 2% annual increase, was enacted on 22 March 2026 but was repealed by the Congress on 28 April after opposition from the PP, Vox and Junts. The standard Urban Lease Law now applies again, though tenants who applied for the extension within the brief window may retain the right if the landlord accepts it.

Negotiations to pass a new housing decree in July are now tied to demands from the regional Junts party for fiscal incentives for landlords. Junts seeks a 15 % IRPF deduction of up to €11,630 for rental‑related expenses, linking its support to a two‑year rent‑price freeze. The PSOE proposes its own bonuses, while Sumar warns against “gift‑giving” to rent‑seekers and Podemos opposes the measures. Millions of Spanish renters and property owners await the outcome.