The initiative is aimed at addressing the problem of abandoned apartments that are often left unattended, disrupting the operation of utility systems.  This issue is particularly acute in winter, when open windows or broken windowpanes lead to the rapid deterioration of utility systems and frequent ruptures in plumbing, the document says.

The bill suggests that the Housing Code should include provisions for recognizing residential properties as vacant if they meet at least two of the following four criteria:

• arrears in utility payments for one year or longer;

• arrears in property tax payments or penalties for two tax periods or longer;

• no change in the amounts shown on electricity and water meters for a period of one year or longer;

• signs indicating a long absence of tenants, such as the lack or poor condition of the front door, window glazing, or heating equipment due to theft.   

A specialized commission will decide whether to recognize a residential property as vacant.

It is specified that these criteria are planned to be applied to empty premises in apartment buildings located in the Far North and in localities with an equivalent status.