The cost of a pipe renovation in 2026

A pipe renovation is the single most expensive project a housing company undertakes. Its timing and cost often decide whether an older flat is worth buying — and at what price.

What it costs

The cost is usually given in euros per residential square metre of the housing company. Indicative levels (median, varying by region and by building):

Example: in a 55 m² flat a traditional pipe renovation means roughly 50 000–60 000 € as your share — often more than half the flat's value in smaller towns. The cost is usually collected as a capital charge or a company loan over several years.

When it becomes due

The technical service life of the pipework is typically 40–50 years. In practice this means that housing companies built in the 1960s–1980s whose pipes have not been replaced are due for renovation now or within the next few years. Always check the estimated timing in the long-term plan and the completed works in the property manager's certificate.

How it affects the purchase price

An upcoming pipe renovation is a future cost for the buyer. It must show in the purchase price. In practice:

• If it has not been done, work out your estimated share and deduct it from your justified offer.
• If the renovation has just been completed, that is a plus — the coming decades will be quiet on that front.
• Beware of the situation where the renovation has not been done and no provision has been made in the fund either: a double risk.