German construction associations oppose new EU standardization mandate

A coalition of 14 associations and institutions within the construction, window, and facade industries has issued a joint appeal to German Federal Building Minister Verena Hubertz. The group is urging the German government to oppose a proposed EU standardization mandate for building products scheduled for a vote in September.

The industry warns that the new European Construction Products Regulation could impose excessive testing, documentation, and certification requirements. Because windows and doors are frequently custom-made to specific project requirements, even minor variations in size, glass, or frames could trigger massive administrative burdens. Industry representatives suggest that documentation for a single house could grow from a few pages to a thick file without providing additional safety or quality benefits.

Furthermore, the associations warn that these increased bureaucratic costs could lead to price hikes of up to 15 percent, ultimately impacting builders, investors, and tenants.