Moldovan authorities seek stricter rules against illegal constructions

The authorities are preparing legislative amendments that would allow the state to intervene quickly in cases of illegal constructions or buildings carried out with serious deviations from the issued permits. The topic today was discussed at public consultations on the draft law aimed at strengthening the regulatory framework in the field of urban planning and construction.

The discussions were attended by representatives of public authorities, architects, designers and construction specialists. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development Vladimir Bolea and Secretary of State Veaceslav Sipitca.

According to the draft, the National Inspectorate for Technical Supervision (INST) is to receive expanded powers to promptly order the suspension of works carried out illegally, preventing them from continuing for years during court proceedings.

The document more clearly defines the situations in which a construction is considered unauthorized, including when works are carried out without a permit, with deviations from the approved project, or after the expiration of the term provided in the building permit.

The draft also provides for the introduction of additional control mechanisms for buildings with five or more floors. In such cases, consulting the National Inspectorate for Technical Supervision before issuing building permits might become mandatory.

At the same time, the authorities propose simplifying certain administrative procedures for works that do not affect the structural integrity of buildings, as well as for the installation of photovoltaic panels on existing constructions.





During the consultations, Vladimir Bolea said that the purpose of the amendments was to protect people who invest in housing and to prevent situations in which buildings are constructed with serious infringements.

“Building three extra floors is illegal and is a criminal offense. Getting a permit for a duplex and then constructing a five-story building with 22 apartments is a criminal offense,” the minister said.

The official added that many people work abroad for years to be able to buy a home and the state must guarantee that these buildings are constructed in accordance with legal standards.

According to the Infrastructure and Regional Development Ministry, the draft law will be finalized after examining the proposals put forward during the public consultations. Interested parties may submit additional recommendations until May 22.