The Basque Government approved on Tuesday a decree on urgent housing measures, with the aim of strengthening the “social shield” against the housing emergency. This new regulation establishes reference rental price indices in the three territories, which will allow prices to be limited in areas declared as stressed. This measure is part of the Comprehensive Housing Access Plan for Euskadi, which includes reforms, resources, and agreements.
The decree modifies twelve existing regulations to adapt public housing policies to the new market reality. Thus, the income threshold for the Bizigune program is raised to 46,463.29 euros, and the fee received by owners who lease their homes is increased to up to 80% of the market value, with a maximum of 700 euros per month. In stressed areas, this fee can reach 95% of the average EMAL price.
Regarding the Gaztelagun program, access conditions for rental aid for young people are significantly improved. Maximum subsidized rents increase to 900 euros in Bilbao, Donostia/San Sebastián, and Vitoria-Gasteiz, 800 euros in the metropolitan areas of Bilbao and Donostia/San Sebastián and in municipalities with more than 10,000 inhabitants, and 750 euros in the rest. Furthermore, the program for the first time incorporates new residential realities, such as subletting and room rentals.
“"With these indices, the stressed areas are now fully regulated, and the Department has managed to meet or launch the most important milestones of the legislature before reaching its halfway point."
In addition to these measures, the decree improves the scope of the subjective right to housing, raising income thresholds for its recognition by 1,000 euros. It also includes urban redensification and regeneration measures, facilitating the conversion of industrial or tertiary buildings and commercial premises into housing. All of this aims to expand the housing stock in Euskadi and ensure dignified access for all citizens.
