A new regulation concerning the design of public buildings and multi-family residential buildings in Poland is set for amendment less than a year after its implementation, due to concerns raised during the initial phase of its enforcement.
A regulation concerning the design and construction of underground spaces in public buildings and multi-family residential buildings has come into force in Poland. However, this regulation is already facing the prospect of an amendment. The primary concern stems from Article 94 of the Act, which mandates the provision of emergency shelter spaces in these buildings. Notably, such specialized structures are not commonly regarded as standard project components, and this could potentially apply to a wide range of construction plans. The regulation pertains to building permit applications filed after December 31, 2025.
Although the law has been in effect for over a year, it appears that the effective evaluation of its implementation has revealed significant challenges. As indicated in a draft proposal for an amendment to the Act on Civil Protection and other statutes, officials have recognized that the requirement to provide emergency shelter spaces could add considerable complexity to construction projects. Stakeholders in the construction industry may face an increased financial burden and design complications, making compliance with the law more challenging than originally anticipated.
As the government moves towards amending this regulation, it will be crucial to balance public safety considerations with the practicalities of construction. The upcoming amendments will likely seek to clarify the requirements and perhaps offer alternative solutions for ensuring safety within these structures, without placing undue strain on the construction sector. This situation highlights the ongoing evolution of safety regulations in Poland as developers and policymakers work together to address emerging challenges.
