Russia proposes law to end underfunding of apartment building repairs

Russian lawmakers have put forward a new bill to standardise how maintenance fees are paid in apartment buildings. The draft law, developed with input from Senator Yevgeny Bogomazov, aims to address long-standing issues with underfunding in building upkeep. If passed, it would prevent residents from setting payments below a regional minimum—even by collective agreement.

The proposal was created by members of the Vologda Regional Legislative Assembly alongside Bogomazov. It introduces a system where regional governments set a minimum payment threshold for maintenance tariffs, following federal guidelines. Currently, residents and management companies often agree to cut costs, leaving buildings without enough funds for proper repairs.

Under the new rules, payments could not drop below the regional minimum, though residents would still have the option to pay more. The bill has now been published in the State Duma’s electronic database for further review. Critics argue that the changes may push up maintenance bills in some areas. However, supporters claim the move will ensure buildings receive consistent funding for essential work.

The draft law would remove the option for residents to collectively reduce payments below the set minimum. Regional authorities would gain control over setting the baseline fees, based on federal standards. If approved, the changes would mark a shift in how maintenance costs are managed across Russia.