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Nieuws | New building declines, renovation takes off in Flanders

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New building declines, renovation takes off in Flanders

New building declines, renovation takes off in Flanders

The Flemish construction market is increasingly shifting from new construction to renovation. Until July 2024, there were 26,104 licence applications for new construction and 22,988 applications for renovations, marking the lowest number of new construction applications in six years. This trend towards renovation stems from various policy initiatives, but Embuild Flanders warns of the potential consequences. According to Caroline Deiteren, director general of Embuild Flanders, the growth of households and the rising demand for housing for students, migrant workers and second homes means there is an urgent need for new construction. Without new projects, the tightness in the housing market will increase, which could lead to higher property prices. 

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Licensing issues and innovation: moving the construction sector forward

The construction industry is anticipating this reality with innovative solutions such as modular construction and digitalisation. However, Deiteren stresses that the government must play its role in speeding up permitting processes. The current delays in issuing permits are a major bottleneck, and the building federation advocates putting this problem on the Flemish government's agenda. After all, municipalities that issue smoother permits contribute to the realisation of affordable housing. With local elections on the horizon, the hope is that there will be more support for feasible building projects. 

Climate targets and the focus on renovation

The Flemish government is strongly committed to renovation as part of its climate plan. Municipalities are restricting the issuance of building land, with a preference for densification of existing residential areas. In addition, buyers of poorly insulated houses are obliged to carry out renovations within five years to achieve EPC label D. The focus on renovation is necessary to meet climate targets. Between 2005 and 2021, CO₂ emissions from Flemish buildings already fell by 20%, but a further 22% reduction must be achieved by 2030. Renovation policy plays a crucial role in this, while rising mortgage rates and building materials prices make new construction less affordable. 

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