Romania passes 'Lift for Life' law to install elevators in old apartment blocks

Romania's parliament has promulgated the "Lift for Life" law, establishing a national program to install elevators, platform lifts and ramps in multi‑storey residential buildings that lack accessibility. The legislation, championed by Deputy Diana Tușa and supported by President Nicușor Dan, targets elderly residents, people with disabilities and families with young children, potentially benefiting over 3.5 million citizens.

The program, coordinated by the Ministry of Development and the Ministry of Investments and European Projects, will be funded through European Union funds, state transfers and local budgets. An initial pilot phase will involve up to 100 condominiums over 18 months, after which the scheme is set to expand nationwide, with simplified authorisation procedures and possibilities to combine accessibility works with seismic risk reduction or energy‑efficiency upgrades.