Since January 3, 2022, the "House without formalities" program has been in force in Poland. Along with the program, regulations came into force enabling the construction of single-family houses with a maximum building area of 70 m2 in a simplified procedure, i.e. without the need to obtain a building permit. One of the key projects of the Polish Deal aims to make it easier for Poles to build a small house on a plot of land. Is building a house without a permit an ideal solution? Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of the (not so) new law.
Check cables and wires at the Onninen wholesaler
Advantages of building a house without a permit
Simplified procedure – undoubtedly the biggest advantage of the current regulations is the reduction of formalities. It is not necessary to obtain a decision on a building permit (this procedure is complicated and requires the collection of many documents), which shortens the waiting time for the start of the investment by several weeks. The necessary documents can be submitted online. Faster start of construction works allows the investment to be completed in a shorter time.
Independence and savings – the investor does not have to hire a construction manager or keep a construction log, which translates into savings of up to several thousand zlotys. He can make decisions independently.
Quick decision on development conditions – in the absence of a local spatial development plan, a decision on development conditions should be issued by the commune within 21 days of submitting the application. This significantly speeds up the investment process.
Accessibility for everyone - any adult person can use the simplified procedure, as long as the construction serves to meet their own housing needs.
No restrictions on sale/rental - contrary to popular belief, a house built using the simplified procedure can be freely sold or rented. There are no restrictions in this regard, which increases investment flexibility.
Small area only at first glance – it turns out that the house without a permit is 70 m 2 in practice... a house without a permit 100 m 2 , or even more! How is that possible? Although the maximum building area with a simplified procedure is 70 m 2 , there can be over 100 m 2 of usable area on two floors of the building. For many people, including families with children, such a house will be completely sufficient.
Ready-made projects for use - The General Office of Building Supervision provides a database of ready-made house projects without a permit 70 m 2 .
Disadvantages of building a house without a permit
Limited space - the simplified procedure applies only to single-family two-storey houses (ground floor + 1st floor) with a building area of up to 70 m 2 , which may be insufficient for large families or people who need a lot more space. If you have much greater expectations regarding the square footage of the house, consider choosing the traditional procedure with a building permit.
Responsibility for construction - an investor who exercises his right not to employ a construction manager takes responsibility for the proper course of construction work by submitting an appropriate declaration together with the construction notification. Resigning from a construction manager seems like a tempting option due to independence and money saved. On the other hand, it should be remembered that managing construction works requires knowledge and experience in the field of construction in order to avoid defects in the building being constructed.
Submitting declarations under penalty of criminal liability – when reporting construction, the investor must submit several declarations, including that the construction is being carried out to meet their own housing needs, that they are taking responsibility for managing the construction, and that the documentation submitted is complete. False declarations are subject to criminal liability.
Not such a simple procedure - despite simplifications, the investor is still required to collect and submit a set of documents: a plot development plan, an architectural and construction design, a decision on development conditions (if the plot is not covered by the MPZP) and various declarations. This may be difficult to do on your own for people without experience in conducting construction investments.
Tips for investors planning to build a house permits
Before you start building a house without a permit, it is a good idea to consult an architect or structural engineer to make sure that the project meets all legal requirements, including local regulations, and that the documentation is complete. This will minimize the risk of problems with regulatory authorities and allow you to enjoy your own new home without stress.
Are you planning to build a house without a permit? In the assortment of the electrical and plumbing wholesaler Onninen you will find everything you need to perform home installations. Check out the devices, components and accessories offered in categories such as:
- lighting
- water, sewage and gas networks
- heating
- fire protection and fire protection
- cables and wires
Need advice on selecting solutions for your home's internal or external installations? Contact us! Onninen's technical and sales consultants will provide you with professional support.