Interior Ministry Receives 1,359 Applications for Older Building Renovation Subsidies

The Ministry of the Interior announced today that it has received 1,359 applications for the Aging Housing Lifespan Extension Program nationwide to date, comprising 1,285 detached houses and 74 apartments. These cases cover various types of aging structures, ranging from single-family homes to multi-unit apartment complexes, highlighting the widespread reach and demand for the program across the country. The program primarily targets residences that were built long ago and suffer from structural instability or outdated facilities. It provides subsidies for structural reinforcement, fire safety improvements, and electrical system upgrades to extend the useful life of the buildings and reduce the environmental and social costs associated with demolition and reconstruction.

Notably, the Ministry of the Interior pointed out that apartment owners can now apply for subsidies if they only need to repair one shared common area. This policy adjustment aims to lower the application threshold for apartment owners, as the maintenance and repair of apartments have traditionally required coordination through a management committee, a process that is often cumbersome and costly. The new regulations allow a single owner to apply directly to the Ministry of the Interior even if a management committee has not been established, which will significantly reduce administrative burdens and time costs for small apartment communities or individual owners.

Furthermore, the Ministry of the Interior stated that the second round of applications will open as early as between January and May next year. Following the official announcement, county and city governments will open application windows in phases based on regional needs and building conditions. This phased arrangement ensures the reasonable allocation of funds and personnel, while also enabling local governments to develop more targeted application guidelines according to the local distribution of aging homes and repair priorities.

From a policy perspective, the implementation of the Aging Housing Lifespan Extension Program is designed to address housing safety issues arising from population aging and accelerated urbanization in Taiwan. In the past, aging and poorly maintained buildings have frequently experienced structural collapses, water leaks, and electrical short circuits, posing threats to the lives and property of residents. By providing lifespan extension subsidies, the government can enhance building safety while preserving the existing cultural and social fabric of communities, thereby avoiding the community disruption and loss of historical heritage that result from large-scale demolition.

Finally, the implementation of this policy is not only an investment in housing safety but also an indirect boost to the local economy. Repair projects will drive demand in related industries such as building materials, construction, and design, creating employment opportunities. Meanwhile, improving housing quality will help attract external investment and enhance the living environment, having a long-term positive impact on local economic development. The Ministry of the Interior urges owners and residents nationwide to seize the opportunity to apply, ensuring that the Aging Housing Lifespan Extension Program is effectively implemented to safeguard residential safety and community sustainability.

(Source: Central News Agency)