Cuba Incorporates Real Estate Agencies and Cooperatives under New Housing Law

On Wednesday, Cuba released new regulations governing the access, construction, use, maintenance, and transfer of real estate. As well as public policies aimed at guaranteeing the right to adequate housing.

The measure—published in the Official Gazette as Law 187 (the Housing Law) and approved by the National Assembly of People’s Power on July 30^th. It reaffirms the State’s responsibility for developing construction programs designed to reduce the housing deficit. With the participation of the general public and other economic actors.

A key innovation is the recognition of the right of individuals to own up to two homes. In addition to any property designated as a vacation or summer home in its title deed.

Furthermore, the law incorporates real estate agencies and housing cooperatives as entities that can participate in the National Housing Development Program. Alongside the state sector, individual self-build efforts, “micro-brigades” (construction collectives), and private enterprises, among others.

The new law allows property owners to grant the use of their homes to others free of charge. Provided this is done through a formal contract registered with the appropriate institutions. It also introduces mediation as an alternative method for resolving disputes between property owners, in accordance with applicable legislation.

Additionally, the regulations stipulate that the State will fulfill the right to adequate housing through construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance programs. While promoting a wider range of options for accessing and financing housing.

Law 187 will take effect seven days after its publication in the Official Gazette. Alongside it, the 86th regular edition of the Gazette includes Decree 176, the General Regulations for the Housing Law. Decree 177, Regulation on Horizontal Property, and Decree 178, Regulation on Housing Cooperatives.

With information from Prensa Latina