The need for renovation in Germany's building stock is steadily increasing. According to the dena Building Report 2026, a significant proportion, approximately 60 per cent, of buildings were constructed before 1979. These structures often no longer meet current energy and technical standards. Despite the urgent need, the renovation rate has remained below the required level for several years.
Frequent causes for delays in renovations include rising construction costs, a shortage of skilled workers, or the lack of a reliable basis for decision-making. Melanie Waldmann, a civil engineer and managing director of mayer bährle GmbH, points out that many necessary measures are postponed or only implemented on an ad hoc basis. However, the demands for energy efficiency, sustainability, and the preservation of building values are increasing, meaning the pressure to renovate remains. Property owners, housing associations, administrators, and public owners of building portfolios are thus confronted with growing challenges. A detailed inventory can, however, quickly create transparency and provide a reliable basis for renovation and construction decisions.
Particularly for multi-family homes or larger property portfolios, it is not sufficient to consider individual damages or measures in isolation. A structured overall overview is required, making the actual condition of the buildings transparent and demonstrating a clear prioritisation. Waldmann explains that a comprehensive picture emerges through the analysis of existing documents, the technical classification of the building's condition, and the systematic recording of necessary measures. This provides an overview of which measures should be implemented promptly by which trades and which can be planned in the medium or long term. Furthermore, initial assessments of potential funding programmes can be made to identify financial potential early on.
This systematic analysis and structuring of measures allows for the creation of initial cost estimates and realistic budget planning. The result is a clear action plan that facilitates the organisation of complex renovation tasks for owners and those responsible, and enables a strategic alignment of investments.
Given the increasing demands on the building stock, early and structured property assessment is gaining importance. According to Waldmann, owners who know the condition of their buildings, can assess potential risks, and prioritise measures sensibly, create the prerequisites for economic portfolio development and sustainable value preservation. Professional support from construction project managers can create transparency regarding renovation needs, reduce uncertainties, and generate a reliable basis for further planning.
