HOUSING IN EXCHANGE FOR RENOVATION in Zyrardow
About this good practice
The "Housing in exchange for renovation" program was developed in response to the pressing need for affordable housing solutions in the Żyrardów community. In fact, due to rising housing costs and limited availability, many residents struggled to find suitable accommodation.
This program aims to address these challenges by revitalising existing housing stock and empowering residents to become active participants in improving their living conditions.
The primary objectives of the "Housing in exchange for renovation" program are to:
Provide affordable housing options for residents.
Revitalize existing housing stock.
Empower residents to take ownership of their living spaces.
Foster community engagement and social cohesion.
The "Housing in exchange for renovation" program operates through a process:
Residents express interest in participating. It is necessary to submit a "Declaration of will to accept the premises for renovation", without it the application will not be considered.
The Housing Committee of the Żyrardów City Council evaluates their application.
After the approval, they can renovate a designated property in exchange for affordable rent.
Upon completion of renovations, residents move into the refurbished housing unit.
The program continues to monitor and support residents throughout their tenancy.
Resources needed
Apartments needing renovation, selected by the City Mayor
Individuals/families funding the renovation; no City co-financing
City Role: Renovates facades/staircases of rental buildings
Verification: Works overseen by Przedsiębiorstwo Gospodarki Mieszkaniowej Sp. z o.o., Żyrardów operator
Evidence of success
The program offers residents affordable housing, improved living conditions, a sense of ownership, and opportunities for skill-building and community involvement.
Żyrardów has issued until now around 40 referrals for renovation contracts.
The broader community benefits from neighbourhood revitalization, strengthened social ties, sustainable practices, and economic growth opportunities.
Potential for learning or transfer
Renting an apartment in exchange for renovation is unique for several reasons:
This is a type of use agreement in which the user receives access to the property in exchange for carrying out specific activities, such as renovation.
This practice presents a contract model in which the conditions for renting an apartment depend on the renovation. It is an innovative approach to housing stock management that can be adapted to different contexts, depending on local needs and conditions.
This practice illustrates how local authorities can use contracts and model contracts to manage public resources such as housing effectively. By encouraging residents to renovate, the quality of life in communities can be improved, and housing resources can be used more efficiently.
In this way, housing for renovation engages residents in improving housing conditions and shows how public resources can be effectively managed through innovative contracts and occupancy agreement models.
