A public opinion survey showed that the majority of Germans believe property owners enjoy a stronger legal position than tenants under rental laws. The survey was conducted by the YouGov Institute on behalf of the German Press Agency and included 2,116 participants between December 12 and 15.
The survey revealed that the German government’s decision to extend the rent brake mechanism until 2029, along with plans for additional reforms, has received relatively broad support. About 43% backed these measures to ensure affordable housing, while 11% opposed them and 35% expressed partial support.
Current regulations prevent rents in initial lease contracts from exceeding the local average by more than 10% in areas with tight housing markets, with exemptions for new buildings completed after October 2014 and for fully renovated units.
The Minister of Justice considers these rules insufficient and is planning reforms that include tightening regulations on short-term rentals, furnished apartments, and rent linked to price indices.
When participants were asked which party holds the stronger legal position, 54% said landlords are in a better position, compared with 18% who believed tenants are better off. Meanwhile, 17% said both sides are equally positioned, and a portion of respondents declined to answer.
