Single mother rents Prague Mayor’s old flat

Zdeněk Hřib signed a contract with the Municipal Rental Agency, which helps people in need to find affordable homes

Last year, the Czech capital launched the Municipal Rental Agency, a public service that makes housing accessible to people in need. On 9 January, Mayor of Prague Zdeněk Hřib revealed that he was among the first homeowners to sign a contract with the agency and offer housing to families in need. 

Taking this further, he shared that his old apartment became the home of a single mother and her three children in November 2021, right before the Christmas holidays. Commenting on his decision, Mayor Hřib shared:

“When I found out about the launch of the Municipal Rental Agency, I offered my apartment, where the renovation had just been completed. I would probably earn a little more from renting it on the market but for me, helping people in need is also important. 

I am aware that my help is only symbolic in this dimension, but I would like this step to inspire other people who are in a similar situation and are thinking about what to do with an apartment that they do not use themselves.”

12 families now live in decent and affordable homes

The mayor’s former home is 1 of 16 that have a contract with the Municipal Rental Agency. Since the launch of the agency, 12 families have found a decent home. As 35 people are still waiting for housing, the agency is urging more homeowners to join the project. 

In a press release, the City of Prague explains that tenants are selected based on predetermined criteria. What is more, the agency offers homeowners a set of guarantees and services, such as the regular payment of income as well as handling certain repairs.

Further reassuring potential landlords, Mayor Hřib notes that his personal experience has shown that the Municipal Rental Agency can be trusted and relied on.