17:57 24 January 2026
Poland’s Shelter Act will bring changes to design and cost of real estate construction
From 2026, infrastructure security is becoming a real factor shaping investment decisions in Poland’s real estate market. The so-called shelter act, although formally in force since 2025, is now starting to affect everyday investment practice. It introduces a legal framework for planning and using civil protection facilities — such as shelters and temporary refuge areas (MDS)—and requires many new residential and commercial buildings, especially those with underground floors, to be designed with protective functions in mind. The rules apply mainly to projects whose building permits are filed after 31 December 2025.
The most immediate impact will be higher construction costs due to reinforced structures, advanced ventilation, and safety systems, which may translate into higher rents and more cautious investment decisions. Over time, however, buildings offering enhanced safety may gain a competitive advantage, particularly in premium and strategic segments.
