German Construction Industry Calls for Easing of Building Regulations

Amid a housing shortage, industry leaders and the government debate solutions to simplify and reduce the cost of residential construction.

Germany faces a significant housing shortage, yet building permits have reached a low point despite stabilized interest rates and inflation.
Industry leaders, including Vonovia's CEO Rolf Buch, criticize excessive regulations, citing requirements for amenities like playgrounds and parking as barriers.
Federal Building Minister Klara Geywitz advocates for industrial prefabrication to enhance productivity and reduce costs in construction.
The proposed 'Building Type E' could allow developers to deviate from current standards, aiming to lower construction costs.
The German Bundestag is set to discuss reforms to simplify building codes, including faster approval processes and shorter environmental reports.