Global Mobility Insights, Q3 2025 – Part II

SPAIN

In 2023, Spain introduced a new housing law – Law 12/2023 – in a bid to control rent prices in stressed areas. But in Catalonia, the new law is discouraging new rental contracts, with many property owners choosing not to put their properties up for rent under the new rules, and existing tenants staying put due to fear that they won’t be able to find anywhere else to live. This has resulted in high competition for rental properties, in Barcelona, as an example, each rental listing typically receives 60+ applications. Landlords have been enforcing tougher terms for Tenants including proof of regular and stable income, guarantees, and/or multiple co-signers required; and certain groups of renters e.g. young people, newcomers (including foreign workers and expats), and middle-income families are finding it extremely tough to secure a property.

To tackle the situation, housing experts are urging the government to boost the rental supply, especially for long-term tenants; to reinforce legal security for both landlords and tenants; and to encourage public-private partnerships with the aim of increasing access to affordable housing. So far, however, the government has not responded.

UK

The Renters’ Rights Bill has now passed through all the main stages in the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Numerous amendments were made in the Lords, then on 8th September, the Bill returned to the Commons for consideration of the Lords’ amendments. Many of the amendments were rejected.

• As a result of the above process, two key changes have been made to the Bill:
• The amendment to allow a pet deposit has been rejected.
• Landlords will not be permitted to demand that tenants take out pet damage insurance.

So, it is still the case that landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet; it is now also the case that landlords will not be granted any additional protections in relation to pets. The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent between late September 2025 and the end of the year.

NIGERIA

The serviced accommodation market in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt is booming, driven by expat and business demand for flexible, fully serviced stays. However, this surge in demand is limiting availability and therefore pushing prices upwards, making serviced accommodation in these cities an increasingly costly housing option.

SOUTH AFRICA

In Johannesburg, ongoing water shortages caused by aging infrastructure, severe leakage, and inconsistent supply have prompted expats to demand reliable backup solutions – particularly water tanks or guaranteed tanker access. These solutions, which can drive rental premiums, are quickly becoming a baseline expectation for those searching for a home.