Abolition of “communal services” in damaged buildings: Verkhovna Rada committee supports draft law
20 February 19:50
The Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Housing, and Utilities Services has supported a bill that abolishes fees for apartment building management services if the building is damaged and cannot be used. This was reported by the press service of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The committee supported the draft law of Ukraine on the specifics of charging for housing and communal services and other payments in connection with damage or destruction of real estate objects, prepared for the second reading.
The draft law stipulates that during the period of martial law in Ukraine and for one year after its termination or cancellation, fees for apartment building management services will not be charged or paid by affected consumers if the apartment building is damaged and cannot be used due to the Russian Federation’s armed aggression against Ukraine.
“Consumers are protected from unreasonable debts: they will not pay for services that they cannot actually use,” the statement said.
The act also proposes a clear reporting procedure for co-owners of apartment buildings — managers are required to provide regular reports and ensure control over the services provided.
In addition, the bill clearly distinguishes between the status of property: it defines which objects are considered destroyed and which are damaged, and what consequences this has for charges.
At the same time, a transparent mechanism is provided to confirm the status of property — an official inspection and corresponding notification are grounds for recalculations and suspension of payments.
At the same time, a compensation mechanism for service providers is provided: expenses will be reimbursed from the state budget, international aid, and future reparations from the Russian Federation.
“The document aims to ensure a fair approach to calculating payments and supporting citizens who have lost the ability to use their homes due to the war,” the Council notes.
The bill also establishes clear and transparent rules in the field of housing and communal services during martial law and post-war recovery.
