Renovation without demolition: what is known about the bill regarding “Khrushchev-era buildings”
15 April 18:35
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is working on a bill to modernize the aging housing stock. At the same time, lawmakers insist that there are no plans for the mass demolition of “Khrushchev-era” buildings, and that the focus is on renovation. This was reported by the press service of the Verkhovna Rada, according to [Komersant].
What sparked the issue
Reports have appeared in the media about a possible large-scale demolition of old housing. Parliament has denied this.
The chair of the relevant committee, Olena Shulyak, stated:
- no decisions on mass demolition have been made
- legislation on renovation has not yet been finalized
- each case will be considered individually
What the bill provides for
This document concerns:
- comprehensive reconstruction of neighborhoods
- upgrading outdated housing stock
- infrastructure modernization
Demolition is not the default scenario; it is only possible if other options are not feasible.
What types of renovation are possible
Renovation may include:
- modernization of apartment buildings
- reconstruction of utility networks
- upgrading transportation infrastructure
- development of social facilities
The key is a flexible approach, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
How the fate of buildings will be determined
Decisions will be made based on technical inspections of buildings, energy audits, and technical-economic calculations.
In other words, each building will be assessed individually.
The scale of the problem
There are over 30,000 dilapidated housing units in Ukraine, of which over 10,000 are “Khrushchev-era” buildings. In some cities, they account for up to 50% of the housing stock
This means the issue is systemic and long-term in nature.
What stage is the law at?
The bill passed its first reading back in 2022. The document has undergone a significant number of amendments and requires substantial revision. Public consultations are next
Parliament has not yet made a final decision.
The broader context of housing policy
At the same time, the government has already passed a basic law on housing policy. It is working on launching a social housing system and reviewing its approaches due to the impact of the war.
Renovation is just one part of a broader reform.
What this means
For residents:
- no risk of mass demolition “from above”
- potential local renovation projects
For cities:
- a chance to modernize entire neighborhoods
- need for complex and expensive solutions
For the state:
- the need to balance renewal with social safeguards
