Andorra Housing Syndicate Rallies Against 'Programmed Expulsion' Rent Deregulation Bill

The Housing Syndicate of Andorra has organized a rally on Tuesday, April 7, at 7:30 pm in Plaça del Consell General to oppose the government's rent deregulation bill, which the group labels the "programmed expulsion law." Announced through social media, the event seeks to build public pressure before the April 8 deadline for amendments to the legislation, now under consideration in parliament.

The syndicate, formerly the Coordinadora per l'Habitatge Digne, opposes the planned phase-out of rent controls on around 20,000 contracts from 2027 to 2030. It argues the changes will strain working-class budgets, heighten tenant vulnerability to landlord tactics such as traps, coercion, and intimidation, and risk displacing nearly half the population—about 43,800 people. Projections indicate rents for a standard 70m² apartment could rise 47% by 2032, from €525 to €772 monthly, outpacing salary growth. Critics view exemptions for recent or premium contracts as loopholes, especially without a public property registry or updated housing census.

Instead of extensions, the group pushes for protective standards starting January 1, 2027, including indefinite leases, evictions limited to owner needs or major breaches, and a Reference Price Index tied to property quality, tenure, and local affordability. Further demands include bans on all evictions—direct or indirect—unless affordable options exist; mandatory mediation; limits on room shares and density; verified reimbursements for improvements; penalties for abuses like the "child trap"; activation of vacant properties; and justification requirements for short-term leases.

The syndicate dismisses the bill's gradual approach as masking market speculation that burdens tenants. "We do not want indefinite extensions, but protection conditions to ensure safeguards for all renters," it stated on social media.

Government spokesperson Guillem Casal affirmed support for peaceful protests and openness to stakeholder talks, including past sessions with the syndicate. He portrayed the bill as balanced and consultative, shaped by sector views, though now in parliamentary hands.

The Unió Sindical d’Andorra (USdA) backs the rally, urging members to join and amplify the call against what it sees as entrenched speculation.