Germany's housing chief demands fairer renovation cost-sharing for struggling tenants
Axel Gedaschko, president of Germany’s housing association, has called for urgent changes to how renovation costs are shared between tenants. He argues that the current system unfairly burdens lower-income households, including those already struggling with rent payments. Under the existing rules, landlords can pass on renovation expenses equally to all tenants, regardless of their earnings. Gedaschko highlighted the case of a single mother working as a nurse who pays just €4.50 per square metre in base rent. For her, an additional renovation charge could push housing costs beyond what she can afford.
Gedaschko proposed a tiered model where higher earners contribute more to modernisation costs. He stressed that income should be a key factor in calculating each tenant’s share. His call comes as pressure grows on the governing coalition to reform the system before further financial strain falls on vulnerable renters.
The housing association leader’s proposal aims to ease the burden on low-income tenants while ensuring landlords still recover renovation expenses. If adopted, the change would mean wealthier tenants pay a larger portion of modernisation costs, reducing the financial pressure on those earning less.
