Rents Economics Minister Parmelin calls for compromises on tenancy law

According to Economics Minister Guy Parmelin, the two "no" votes on the rental law proposals show that balanced solutions are needed. Before new projects are discussed, the interests of tenants and landlords must be explored. Compromises are needed.

The electorate was not convinced by the solutions drawn up by Parliament on subletting and owner-occupation, Parmelin told the media in Bern on the evening of Sunday's vote. In the view of the majority, the proposals would have increased the imbalance between tenants and landlords. In addition, it was not clear to many why the new rules were needed.

Parmelin warned against leaving tenancy law as it is today. The laws need to be modernized and updated in some areas. This would require a transparent, constructive dialog between all those affected.

"I remain convinced that solutions in tenancy law must be balanced," said Parmelin. On the one hand, there needs to be effective tenant protection, while on the other hand, investors also need entrepreneurial freedom.

"The rent must be based on the costs for landlords and ideally not exceed the tenants' financial means." He is aware that this is often difficult. It therefore requires a lot of goodwill and a willingness to compromise. "Blockades won't get us anywhere."

Parmelin plans to hold new talks with the heads of the tenants' and landlords' associations soon, he announced. He emphasized that the Federal Council has "hardly any room for manoeuvre" when it comes to tenancy law and that the cantons and municipalities in particular have a duty to act.

SDA