The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a significant law aimed at alleviating the financial burden on homeowners whose properties have been damaged or destroyed due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. The legislation, known as Bill No. 13155, received overwhelming support, with 308 lawmakers voting in favor.
According to Pavel Frolov, a member of Parliament and head of the special commission on internally displaced persons, the law introduces several key provisions. Firstly, utility charges for homes that have been completely destroyed will cease from the date of destruction. For properties deemed uninhabitable or posing health risks, fees will be suspended during the repair or restoration period.
In cases involving homeowners’ associations (OSBB), decisions regarding fee exemptions will be made collectively by the members. Local government commissions are tasked with conducting assessments of damaged properties and must report their findings to the homeowners, the OSBB, the Pension Fund of Ukraine, and service providers within 30 working days of the incident.
This law is set to remain in effect throughout the duration of martial law and for two years following its conclusion. Additionally, the government is required to develop a mechanism for restructuring debts incurred after February 24, 2022, prohibiting forced debt collection during the period of temporary occupation until such debts are verified.
Frolov emphasized the law’s importance, stating, “This legislation provides effective social guarantees for affected Ukrainians: they will no longer be required to pay for services that are not being rendered and cannot be utilized.”
The Ukrainian Parliament has enacted a law to relieve homeowners from utility fees for properties damaged by the war. This measure aims to support those affected by the conflict, ensuring they are not charged for services that are unavailable.