Dominican Republic real estate and construction regulation

The Dominican Republic is undergoing significant regulatory and legislative shifts affecting the construction, real estate, and rental sectors.

In the construction industry, experts from the Association of Builders of Santo Domingo Este (ACOSDE) have identified challenges stemming from Law 30-26. This legislation modifies direct and indirect cost structures, increases withholdings on technical services, and introduces new regulations regarding solid waste. To navigate these changes, industry specialists recommend strengthening organizational structures, controlling costs, and implementing criminal compliance programs to manage risks associated with the new penal code.

Parallel developments are occurring in the real estate and rental markets. The short-term lodging sector is focusing on professionalization and regulation through industry dialogue. Additionally, the modernization of rental laws via Law 85-25 on Real Estate Leases and Evictions is replacing outdated 1955 legislation. This new framework seeks to balance landlord-tenant relationships by capping security deposits at two months' rent and limiting rent increases to 10% unless otherwise specified in a contract.