KfW and Interior Ministry Increase Grants for Accessibility and Burglary Protection

KfW, Germany's development bank, in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMI), has boosted funding for initiatives aimed at reducing accessibility barriers in private residences and improving burglary protection. For 2018, EUR 75 million is available for accessibility measures, allowing applications to be resubmitted. Simultaneously, funding for burglary protection has been increased from EUR 50 million to EUR 65 million, responding to persistent high demand.

The increased funding addresses demographic shifts and security concerns within the population. Federal Interior Minister Horst Seehofer emphasized housing policy as a key government task, noting the need to address demographic changes and public security needs. He welcomed the enhanced support for conversions facilitating aging in place and the significant increase in funds for burglary prevention.

Dr. Ingrid Hengster, Member of the KfW Executive Board, highlighted the programs' relevance, demonstrated by strong demand. She stated the grants help citizens invest in improved quality of life and home security. Product enhancements, including a lowered minimum investment and a tiered grant scheme, previously led to approximately 80,000 housing units receiving support for burglary protection.

The grants support construction measures in residential buildings designed to reduce physical barriers and increase security. These benefits extend to the elderly, individuals with reduced mobility, and families with children, enabling them to remain in their familiar surroundings. Measures for burglary protection can be combined with those for age-appropriate conversions.

Private homeowners and tenants can submit grant applications online via the KfW grant portal before starting their projects. Funding approval is often processed within minutes.