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Germany’s housing crisis deepens as new home completions plummet by 20%

A shrinking supply of new homes leaves Germany scrambling. Why is construction stalling, and can sand-lime brick save the day?

In the foreground of this picture, there is a building block bricks arranged on the surface. In the...
In the foreground of this picture, there is a building block bricks arranged on the surface. In the background, there are parts of building block bricks on the surface and a woolen cloth.

Germany’s housing crisis deepens as new home completions plummet by 20%

Germany’s housing construction has slowed sharply in recent years. The number of completed residential buildings fell from over 306,000 in 2020 to around 252,000 in 2024. Experts warn that the country is failing to meet demand, with only about 200,000 new homes built last year—far below the 320,000 needed annually.

Sand-lime brick remains the most widely used material in German multi-unit housing. In 2024, it accounted for 34% of all completed residential buildings in this sector. Overall, it made up nearly 38% of the total enclosed space in new constructions, outpacing reinforced concrete, clay brick, aerated concrete, and wood.

The decline in completed homes highlights a deepening housing gap. With sand-lime brick leading construction materials, the industry is adapting through efficiency and sustainability measures. Yet, without faster progress, Germany’s housing shortfall is likely to persist.

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