Russia overhauls housing rules in 2026 with stricter oversight and new deadlines
Russia is introducing major changes to housing and utility regulations starting in 2026. New rules will affect payment deadlines, licensing for management companies, and maintenance costs—particularly in Moscow. The reforms aim to streamline processes and improve transparency in the sector.
From January 1, 2026, residents will have five extra days to settle their utility bills. The payment deadline shifts from the 10th to the 15th of each month. This adjustment coincides with an updated tariff indexing system, raising average costs nationwide by 1.7%.
Management companies will face stricter requirements under unified accounting and reporting standards. They must now employ a certified manager, engineer, and accountant, maintain a permanent office, and offer round-the-clock emergency dispatch. Real-time updates to the state housing information system will also become mandatory, ensuring accurate records of property data and online payments. In Moscow, maintenance fees for common areas in historic districts will climb by 15%. This increase applies to most properties within the city’s central boundaries. New licensing rules take effect on September 1, 2026, shortening the approval process from 30 to 10 days. The State Housing Inspectorate will now oversee license issuance, replacing the previous system.
The reforms bring tighter oversight for management companies and extended payment windows for residents. With faster licensing and higher operational standards, the changes seek to improve efficiency in housing services. Moscow’s fee hike, however, will add to the financial burden for property owners in historic areas.
