On 29 April 2025, EBC representatives met with MEP Irene Tinagli (S&D, Italy), Chair of the European Parliament’s special Committee on Housing (HOUS). The meeting, held at the European Parliament in Brussels, focused on the key challenges and opportunities surrounding housing affordability and sustainability across Europe.
Throughout the discussion, EBC underlined the essential role of local construction companies and craft businesses in meeting Europe’s housing and renovation needs. As drivers of local employment, economic resilience, and skilled craftsmanship, these companies are critical actors in delivering both affordable and sustainable housing solutions.
Emphasizing the role of local construction companies
EBC emphasized that small and medium-sized construction enterprises (SMEs) bring proximity, trust, and adaptability to housing and renovation projects — essential qualities for achieving the EU’s climate and social objectives. The conversation also stressed the need for policy frameworks, public procurement practices, and financial instruments that are tailored to support SMEs and enhance their contribution to housing initiatives.
To effectively tackle Europe’s housing crisis, a stable, predictable, and simplified regulatory framework, would provide the certainty needed to mobilize long-term investments in construction and renovation. Central to this effort is the need to prioritize renovation within future financial mechanisms, recognizing its crucial role in improving both energy efficiency and housing affordability.
While industrialisation in construction can drive innovation and productivity, this transition must be realistic and market-driven, respecting the diverse traditions and business models of local construction ecosystems. Furthermore, it is vital to strengthen SME participation across all housing projects, including in the field of social housing, ensuring that smaller enterprises can fully deploy their skills and creativity.
EBC reminded of the urgency of addressing the workforce and skills shortages impacting the construction sector, advocating for targeted efforts to attract, train, and retain the next generation of construction workers. In addition, local municipalities must be better equipped to understand and access EU funds, enhancing their capacity to deliver housing projects aligned with citizens’ needs.
Finally, the upcoming Next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) must be closely aligned with the EU’s objectives for sustainable buildings and affordable housing, ensuring that sufficient resources are allocated to support both short-term measures and long-term strategic goals.
Mrs Tinagli shared the concern on the lack of workforce and skills to bring policy at the operational level on construction and renovation sites. Additionally, she asked about data allowing to identify indirect costs to construction and renovation projects or the financial impact from material supply disruptions affecting affordability.
A strong partnership for Europe’s housing future
EBC President Philip Van Nieuwenhuizen reiterated the organisation’s commitment to continuing a constructive dialogue with European institutions, ensuring that the voice of small construction businesses is heard and considered in the shaping of future EU housing policies.
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