Romania Launches “Life Lift” Program for Apartment Buildings

Nicușor Dan, the President of Romania, signed into law the “Life Lift” program, which will provide funding for the installation of elevators in apartment buildings with at least three floors that were originally built without them. The national program, coordinated by the Ministry of Development, Public Works and Administration and the Ministry of Investments and European Projects, aims to improve accessibility for elderly residents, people with disabilities, and those with reduced mobility.

The law establishes a legal framework for increasing accessibility in buildings, including those in protected areas. Funding will cover the design, construction, and installation of elevators, as well as alternative solutions like stairlifts or ramps, depending on the building’s needs. Local authorities will carry out the investments on behalf of eligible homeowners associations.

The program will be funded through European funds, the state budget, local budgets, and donations. Approximately 88,000 buildings in Romania currently lack elevators, impacting around 3.8 million people. Implementation will begin with a pilot project covering 100 buildings.