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Germany's E-Building Standards Set for Cost-Cutting Drop, Sparking Consumer Warnings

Germany's cost-cutting plan for E-building standards raises consumer concerns. Will homeowners see savings, or will quality suffer?

This image consists of buildings.
This image consists of buildings.

Germany's E-Building Standards Set for Cost-Cutting Drop, Sparking Consumer Warnings

The German government plans to lower building standards for the E-building type, aiming to reduce construction costs. However, the Homeowners' Protection Association (BSB) warns of potential risks to consumers and building quality.

The BSB argues that consumers should be well-informed before construction companies deviate from recognized rules of technology (a.R.d.T.). This is to maintain transparency, as deviating from these rules will no longer be considered a defect in future constructions.

Over 60% of tenants considering buying residential property reject lowering building standards, even with potential savings of 10% on construction costs. The BSB doubts that homeowners in the private sector would significantly benefit from lower construction costs, as savings may not be passed on to consumers.

Lowering building standards may not result in noticeable cost effects for single-family home construction, benefiting mainly multi-family homes through economies of scale. Possible construction operators could include private real estate developers, housing companies, and construction firms that focus on cost reduction.

The German federal government's plan to lower building standards for the E-building type may not significantly benefit private homeowners. The BSB emphasizes the importance of consumer information and maintaining building quality. The impact on the construction industry, including potential operators, remains to be seen.

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