Finland plans income checks for subsidised housing tenants

Finland is considering a law that would require landlords of subsidized rental housing to check tenants' incomes regularly. This proposal, which would apply to properties where the income limit for a single person is currently 3,540 euros per month, has sparked opposition from major landlords and tenant representatives. The change would affect approximately 55,000 homes, of which about 1,600 are currently vacant.

Heka, Finland's largest landlord, and other stakeholders argue that the measure would be disproportionate and create an undue burden on both tenants and landlords. They warn that regular income checks could lead to more empty homes and higher rents, as well as increase administrative costs and create a sense of instability among residents.

Critics also express concerns about potential data breaches due to the creation of a mass database containing tenants' income information. Despite these objections, the government has prioritized the bill, with parliament expected to consider it in September.