White House Announces it is Taking on ‘Junk Fees’ in Rental Housing
The Biden administration announced today that it is taking on so-called “junk fees” in rental housing in order to lower costs for renters. The administration portrays standard industry fees – such as application fees – as junk fees.
NAHB disagrees with the administration’s approach of broadly characterizing standard industry charges as junk fees. In particular, NAHB has engaged the administration to explain why certain fees, such as application fees, are charged. We have previously addressed this issue in comments to the Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau with the respect to the need for tenant screening.
The administration says that various major rental housing platforms such as Zillow, Apartments.com and AffordableHousing.com will be providing more upfront information on various fees charged. While NAHB is supportive of transparency, we will continue to stand up for our members’ rights to effectively manage their apartment communities.
Latest from NAHBNow
IBS
Aug 26, 2026
3 Ways to Maximize Your 2027 IBS Registration
Registration for the 2027 International Builders’ Show (IBS), taking place Feb. 2-4 in Las Vegas, opens Sept. 1. Make the most of your IBS experience by adding education courses, special events and more when you register.
Economics | Material Costs
Aug 26, 2026
Smaller Builders Report Higher Material Costs
Building material costs increased by 6.7% over the past 12 months, according to results from the survey for the July 2026 NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI).
Latest Economic News
Economics
Aug 26, 2026
PCE Inflation Remains Sticky
The latest report shows the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge remains sticky in July, complicating the Fed’s path to its long-term 2% target. Meanwhile, consumer spending remains resilient but is showing signs of slowing, with real consumer spending unchanged in July. Households are pulling back on spending amid persistent inflation.
Economics
Aug 26, 2026
Multifamily Missing Middle Falls Back
Multifamily missing middle construction declined during the second quarter of 2026.
Economics
Aug 25, 2026
Economic Uncertainty, Affordability Challenges Weigh on New Home Sales
Elevated borrowing costs, rising inflation and broad economic uncertainty continue to curb buyer demand and hold back new home sales.