Tenant Association: Housing companies have become tougher

- The public utility has, in step with the housing shortage, turned up the tone and toughened up, you can say, she says.

Ever since the All Companies entered into force in 2011, the municipal-owned housing companies have demanded that they be operated according to "business principles". This means that the demands for profits and dividends from the owners, ie the municipalities, have become higher. It may also be a reason that they have increased requirements, believes Inger Borg.

- When it has transitioned from the old public interest to becoming a profit machine for the municipalities, then they benefit from having "right" tenants.

The tenant association sees great risks with several housing companies denying people with debts and payment remarks a place in the housing queue.

- The more stringent requirements the public utility places, the more people risk being placed outside every opportunity to rent an apartment.

Do you recognize the image that people who are not allowed to rent at public utility end up in substandard housing?

- Yes, they have no choice. What is the alternative? To settle under a bridge? This is a very tough situation. And now with the corona pandemic, more people are at risk of being excluded. It builds on and increases segregation and poses incredible risks to society, not just to the individual.

How should the housing companies do, do you think?

- They should look after the individual and try on a case by case basis. They should be able to see that there are various reasons why people end up in debt, that does not mean that you will be lagging behind with the rent.