The Climate Ministry wants to amend the building code. It must comply with EU regulations.
An EU directive states that old buildings in poor condition must be renovated. This applies to commercial buildings, warehouses, and offices.
The ministry's next plan is that the worst buildings (G and H class) must be renovated by 2030. These buildings are usually old and poorly insulated.
By 2033, buildings must be in an even better condition (at least E class). E-class buildings include, for example, houses built in the 1990s where windows have been replaced.
Renovation will cost a lot of money—nearly 290 million euros. The money spent can be recouped in about six years. Renovated buildings are warmer and their value increases.
The Real Estate Association says the new law will cause problems. It is especially difficult in rural areas where businesses are not doing well.
According to the association's chairman, Ingvar Allekand, many businesses are already being forced to close. The new law will make the situation even more difficult.
Allekand suggests that Estonia should find a simpler solution. EU rules allow this.
The head of the Climate Ministry, Lauri Suu, says the requirements are part of a larger amendment. This affects all buildings where people work.
The bill will soon go to the parliament. There, politicians can discuss it and make changes.
Suu says Estonia will implement the rules as simply as possible. More than necessary will not be required.