Belgium is currently facing a significant housing challenge. According to Embuild, the Federation of Construction, the country needs to create approximately 225,000 additional homes by 2030. This need arises from demographic growth and an increase in single-parent families. The situation calls for targeted recommendations and actions across various regions, including Wallonia, Brussels, and at the federal level.
Embuild’s alarming report
Embuild’s report underscores the urgency of this housing crisis. The combination of demographic growth and an increase in single-parent families has led to a staggering need for additional housing.
Targeted recommendations for each region
Embuild has laid out specific recommendations for each region. In Wallonia, the focus is on increasing public investment and revising real estate taxation. The federation suggests incentives for acquiring energy-efficient housing, highlighting the need for sustainable development in the housing sector.
The workforce shortage in construction
A key aspect that Embuild emphasizes is the shortage of about 15,000 workers in the construction sector. Addressing this labor gap is crucial for achieving the housing goals.
Brussels’ ambitious renovation goals
For Brussels, Embuild points to a bold objective: renovating 50 buildings per day until 2050 to meet climate targets. This intensive renovation effort is essential for the region’s sustainability goals.
Calls for federal action
At the federal level, Embuild calls for increased public investments to ensure the sustainability of infrastructure. Jean-Christophe Vanderhaegen, Director General of Embuild.Brussels, notes that Belgium’s investment in this area lags behind its European neighbors.
Extending reduced VAT to demolition-reconstruction projects
Another recommendation from the federation is to extend the reduced VAT rate to demolition-reconstruction projects undertaken by real estate developers. This measure could stimulate much-needed construction activity. In summary, Belgium’s housing crisis requires immediate and concerted efforts across regions and at the federal level. From increasing public investment to incentivizing sustainable housing and addressing the workforce shortage, a multi-faceted approach is needed to meet the housing demand by 2030. Embuild’s recommendations offer a roadmap for tackling this challenge, with sustainability and efficiency at its core.
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