Source: European Commission

The European Commission is seeking feedback on measures to alleviate pressure on the housing market which will feed into the preparations of the Affordable Housing Act. Interested parties are invited to provide their views via a questionnaire by 29 March 2026, and to answer a call for evidence by 3 April 2026.

The lack of affordable housing is the most urgent concern for Europeans living in cities. The biggest cities and most popular tourist destinations in the EU face the strongest pressure. The Affordable Housing Act will contribute to realise the objectives of the European Affordable Housing Plan presented in December 2025. The initiative aims to provide a clear and stable regulatory framework allowing public authorities to identify areas under housing stress. It will also include measures to protect and promote housing affordability in such areas, in particular through a legislative proposal on short-term rentals.

Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen said: “Certain areas of Europe are particularly affected by the housing crisis, with people struggling to pay for their rent or even to find a place where they can live a decent life. This is why we want to give local authorities the tools they need to act and to make a real difference in the daily lives of their citizens, including when it comes to the growing impact of short-term rentals. But we cannot solve this challenge alone. I call on everyone with an interest in this issue to contribute to our work. Only by working together can we begin to turn the tide on this crisis.”

As part of the consultation process, the Commission is organising various workshops and meetings with Member States and local authorities. More information is available online.