6 latest updates on the rent law and its implementation

Egypt’s newly approved Old Rent Law is already sparking legal challenges while the government moves forward with its implementation. Here are six key updates on the unfolding situation:

1. Constitutional challenges could reach the top court

Constitutional law professor Hamdi Omar says the law can be contested before the Supreme Constitutional Court, but only through a case first filed in a civil court. If a judge sees the unconstitutionality claim as serious, they can refer it to the higher court.

2. Court can review law on its own

Even without a formal challenge, the Constitutional Court has the authority to review the law if it suspects constitutional violations, according to Omar.

3. Balancing rights remains a challenge

Omar notes that the constitution protects both property rights and the right to housing, making it difficult for lawmakers to balance landlords’ need for fair returns with tenants’ long-held contractual protections. Many contracts are now inherited, further complicating the issue.

4. Gradual rent increases proposed

Constitutional law professor Ahmed Saeed warns that canceling old contracts outright could be unconstitutional. He suggests starting rents at EGP 1,000 per month with 20–30% annual increases over at least seven years to gradually match market rates.

5. Cabinet approves housing survey committees

The Cabinet has approved regulations for governorate-level committees to survey old-rent properties. They will classify neighborhoods as premium, mid-range, or economic based on location, construction quality, and available services. Their findings must be completed within three months.

6. Relocation applications to open in October

Housing Minister Sherif El-Sherbiny announced that qualifying tenants can apply for alternative housing between October 1 and the end of December. Applications will be accepted online and at Egypt Post branches, with eligibility limited to the original leaseholder, certain spouses, or legally extended tenants.