The State of Housing in Europe 2023

This report, titled "The State of Housing in Europe 2023," was prepared by the Housing Europe Observatory with contributions from various members and partners across Europe. It highlights the current challenges and trends in the housing sector, particularly focusing on public, cooperative, and social housing, and their roles in addressing sustainability and affordability in the context of the ongoing energy and cost-of-living crises.

The report reveals alarming trends regarding the affordability of housing across Europe. Average rents have increased by 19% and house prices by 47% from 2010 to the end of 2022, outstripping income growth. The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, such as the war in Ukraine, have exacerbated existing issues, pushing more households into financial distress. Notably, the number of households applying for social housing has dramatically increased, with 2.4 million applications in France alone, marking a 16% rise since 2016.

The report discusses the significant impact of rising energy costs, which have disproportionately affected low-income households. Many face difficulties in paying for essential goods and services, including housing. In Denmark, for instance, warnings about potential evictions increased by nearly 20% in 2022. The situation is critical, with many families forced to alter their consumption habits to cope with inflation. Public housing providers have initiated various measures, such as energy coaching and rent freeze policies, to help tenants manage these rising costs.

In terms of the housing stock, social housing typically demonstrates better energy performance compared to private homes. For instance, over 50% of social housing in the Netherlands meets A or B energy performance certificate ratings. However, significant challenges remain, particularly related to the renovation of older buildings. Many units, especially those built before 1980, require substantial investment to meet modern energy efficiency standards. In France, about 1.8 million social housing units will need to be refurbished to comply with new regulations aimed at improving energy efficiency.

The report emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices within the housing sector. Providers are increasingly focusing on using renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency through retrofitting. Countries like Denmark and Sweden are leading the way in integrating renewable energy solutions into their housing strategies, with public housing companies exploring solar panel installations and district heating systems. However, rising construction costs and interest rates pose significant barriers to achieving these sustainability goals.

Looking ahead, the report notes that the upcoming European elections in June 2024 will be pivotal in shaping policies related to housing and sustainability. A coordinated effort involving local, national, and European institutions will be crucial in addressing the intertwined challenges of affordability, availability, and sustainability in the housing sector. The report calls for continued investment and innovation to ensure that public, cooperative, and social housing providers can meet the growing demand for affordable, energy-efficient homes.

Overall, "The State of Housing in Europe 2023" serves as a comprehensive assessment of the pressing issues facing the housing sector today, providing valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders committed to fostering sustainable housing solutions across Europe.