Ukraine Restricts Free Housing Privatization, Limiting It to Specific Groups.

New Housing Policy Legislation in Ukraine

According to Novyny.live: A new law, No. 12377 'On the Basic Principles of Housing Policy,' has taken effect in Ukraine, significantly limiting the free transfer of state-owned housing into private ownership. This right is now reserved exclusively for specific categories, including military personnel, police officers, and orphaned children. Under the new regulations, the privatization procedures for these groups will be managed by their respective specialized government agencies.

For all other citizens, state housing will only be made available for rent. The law specifies that the finalization of privatization paperwork will be permitted during the current period of martial law and for one year following its termination. It is also important to note that a general moratorium on privatization is currently in place across Ukraine.

Commenting on the reforms, Olena Shuliak stated: 'There were previous instances where service housing was privatized and sold multiple times. Now this is impossible.'

She further emphasized that 'after the transitional period concludes, free housing will only be accessible to the defined categories.'

Groups Eligible for Free Privatization

The categories permitted to privatize housing without charge are:

• Military personnel and their families;
• Police officers and rescue workers (of the State Emergency Service);
• Orphans and children deprived of parental care.

These policy shifts aim to protect the interests of specific social groups deemed to require special state support. This reform is part of broader efforts to improve housing conditions for vulnerable populations and prevent abuses in the privatization of state property. The changes reflect Ukraine's commitments to social justice and supporting those most affected by the ongoing war and socio-economic challenges, while also potentially impacting the rental market as more people seek leased accommodation.