European Parliament backs roadmap to tackle EU housing crisis

The European Parliament has adopted a set of recommendations aimed at addressing the growing housing crisis across the EU, calling for stronger investment, faster construction procedures and measures to improve affordability.

MEPs approved the final report of the Parliament’s Special Committee on the Housing Crisis with 367 votes in favour, 166 against and 84 abstentions. The report highlights that millions of Europeans face precarious living conditions due to rising housing costs and shortages.

Among the proposals is the allocation of specific funds under the European Commission’s upcoming Affordable Housing Plan to support the renovation of homes and improve energy performance, while tackling energy poverty. MEPs also said all new dwellings should meet higher standards on insulation, energy efficiency and air quality.

The report calls for a balanced approach to short-term rentals, ensuring tourism can develop without undermining access to affordable housing. It also urges member states to increase the supply of public and social housing in urban areas and strengthen protections for tenants while safeguarding property owners.

To support buyers and renters, MEPs advocate tax incentives for low- and middle-income households and the removal of barriers such as high registration fees for first-time buyers. They also propose better coordination of EU funding and the reallocation of unused Recovery and Resilience funds towards housing construction and renovation.

Parliament further called for simplified planning procedures, including digital permit systems and a 60-day deadline for building approvals.

Rapporteur Borja Giménez Larraz said Europe faced a shortfall of around 10 million homes, warning that rising rents were putting young people and families under pressure.

Committee chair Irene Tinagli said the crisis was affecting citizens across all member states and required coordinated EU action to restore fairness and improve living standards.