Londoners have expressed strong support for rent controls amid growing concerns over soaring rental costs, with more than two million renters in the capital now spending over 40% of their income on rent.

A report released on Friday by Green Assembly member Zoë Garbett urged Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan to establish a commission to explore how rent controls could be implemented in London.

Garbett highlighted the urgent need to tackle unaffordability, warning that unless action is taken, more residents will be priced out of their own city. She stated, "The evidence is clear: while increasing private housebuilding does not necessarily lower rental prices, rent controls certainly will."

Patrick Dunne, 26, who shares a flat with two others in Kennington, Lambeth, said rent caps would bring him "peace and security." He explained that his rent had surged from £540 per month four years ago to £780, a nearly 40% increase—far outpacing his wage growth. "Every year, you’re at risk of having to move. If the rent hike is too high, you’re forced back into a market full of overpriced, poor-quality properties. It’s difficult to build a life or start a family. It’s really disheartening," he said.

Another renter, who lives in a "mouldy" two-bedroom home in Bromley with her partner and a housemate, described rent controls as "absolutely essential." She noted that once her housemate moves out, her share of the rent will rise to over £750 per month, consuming 47% of her income. "I don’t see myself staying in London long-term. I can’t save because so much of my income goes towards rent," she added.

Despite his previous pledges, Sadiq Khan currently lacks the authority from central government to introduce rent controls. In 2019, he voiced support for such measures and proposed forming a commission to design an effective rent control system. However, six years later, no such body has been established. The Labour government under Keir Starmer has so far dismissed the idea of granting Khan the necessary powers.

A spokesperson for Khan emphasized his commitment to tackling unaffordable rents, stating: "The Mayor is determined to do everything in his power to make housing more affordable for London’s 2.6 million private renters."

Khan has focused on increasing the supply of affordable homes in collaboration with the government, local councils, and housing associations. Last year, he introduced a new Key Worker Living Rent proposal, which aims to save frontline workers up to £600 per month, contributing to a fairer and more livable London.