Old housing renewal program to improve building safety, livability

At the Cabinet's weekly meeting Thursday, Premier Cho Jung-tai received a Ministry of the Interior briefing on a 2025-2027 program to extend the lifespan and renew the functionality of old housing. The premier said the program seeks to promote broader improvements in building safety, complementing existing government initiatives for urban renewal and the reconstruction of aging homes.

With more than half of Taiwan's buildings now aged 30 years or more, many face problems such as insufficient space functionality, inadequate barrier-free facilities, aging pipelines and inconveniences for older residents. Actively upgrading the functionality of existing buildings and improving the living environment is a critical task for the government to protect people's lives and property while strengthening the nation's overall resilience, the premier said.

Premier Cho highlighted that NT$5 billion (approximately US$157.8 million) has been allocated to the program, which aims to accomplish three key goals: (1) improving access to financial assistance by extending eligibility for renovation subsidies to all legally registered buildings nationwide aged 30 years or older; (2) expanding services by covering subsidies for facade and rooftop solar installations, as well as for facilities catering to long-term care or elderly residents; and (3) promoting the use of domestic materials by requiring that all equipment and materials used be locally produced or local brands.

With the integration of cross-ministerial resources for financial assistance and the participation of local governments and building owners, the program is expected to channel more than NT$10 billion (approx. US$315.5 million) into boosting domestic demand in Taiwan's construction and traditional industries.