Ukraine plans to update building codes for residential buildings: what will change

Ukraine is preparing a large-scale update of the state building codes (DBN), which regulate the design and construction of residential buildings. The Ministry of Community Development, Infrastructure and Transport has already approved the terms of reference for the development of relevant changes.

It is expected that the new requirements will make residential buildings safer, more comfortable, accessible for low-mobility groups and bring Ukrainian standards closer to the requirements of the European Union.

What changes do the new DBN provide for

The update will cover a number of key areas, including:

architectural design of residential buildings;

engineering equipment;

fire safety;
creating a barrier-free environment;

protecting residents from noise and vibrations.

As noted by Deputy Minister of Community and Territorial Development Natalia Kozlovska, the new standards will take into account the modern needs of society, promote the development of digital infrastructure and become the basis for the implementation of social housing programs.

Barrier-free requirements will be strengthened

One of the main areas of the update will be ensuring the accessibility of housing for people with disabilities and other low-mobility groups.

In particular, it is planned to detail the requirements for the arrangement of:

entrances to buildings;

ramps and handrails;

internal routes of movement;

navigation elements;

access to information systems.

In addition, the requirements for the improvement of adjacent territories, the placement of public spaces in apartment buildings, car parks, bicycle parking lots and other infrastructure will be revised.

Fire safety rules will change

A separate block of innovations concerns fire safety.

It is planned to clarify the requirements for evacuation routes, including for people who use wheelchairs.

It will also be determined the criteria according to which for residential buildings up to 26.5 meters high, one staircase is sufficient, and in which cases it is necessary to provide two.

New requirements for elevators and noise insulation

The draft amendments provide for updating the requirements for elevator equipment. In particular, it is planned to establish new standards for the size of elevator halls and cabins, as well as determine the requirements for elevators that will be used for the evacuation of the population or the transportation of people with disabilities.

It is also planned to ensure unhindered connection of residential floors with underground levels, where shelters may be located.

Special attention will be paid to noise insulation and protection against vibrations, especially in residential buildings with commercial premises – shops, cafes, offices and other establishments, the activities of which may create an increased level of noise.

When will the changes come into force

The first edition of the updated state building codes is currently being prepared. After the development is completed, the document will undergo the procedures of approval, public discussion and approval in accordance with the procedure established by law.

After entering into force, the new DBN will become mandatory during the design and construction of residential buildings in Ukraine.