Regulations on the Demolition of Prefabricated Panel Houses

The regulations on the demolition of prefabricated panel houses mainly cover four aspects: demolition conditions, demolition procedures and requirements, compensation and resettlement measures, and policy guidance.

I. Demolition Conditions

1. Dangerous Building Standards: Prefabricated panel buildings that have been identified by professional institutions as having structural aging, inadequate seismic performance, or significant safety hazards, and that meet the criteria for dangerous buildings, are prioritized for demolition. For example, buildings with severe cracks in walls, deformation of load-bearing structures, etc., that are confirmed by assessment to be beyond repair through reinforcement, must be included in the demolition scope.
2. Urban Planning Needs: Prefabricated panel buildings located in urban core areas, included in urban village renovation plans, or requiring environmental improvement, may be demolished due to planning adjustments. For example, in urban renewal projects, buildings in areas where roads need to be widened or public facilities constructed may be demolished.
3. Non-One-Size-Fits-All Principle: The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development does not require the comprehensive demolition of prefabricated panel buildings but rather classifies and handles them based on building safety conditions and planning needs. Buildings with satisfactory safety performance and not included in planning renovations can have their service lives extended through reinforcement or renovation.

II. Demolition Procedures and Requirements

1. Safety Technical Specifications: Demolition projects must comply with the 'Safety Technical Specifications for Building Demolition Projects' (JGJ***—2004) and be carried out by units with blasting and demolition qualifications. Subcontracting is strictly prohibited. The construction unit must develop a safety technical management plan, specifying construction procedures, protective measures, and emergency response plans.
2. Construction Preparation: The construction unit must provide building drawings, pipeline distribution information, etc., and cut off water, electricity, and gas pipelines affecting construction. The construction unit must assess the surrounding environment, set up warning signs, and ensure construction safety.
3. Historical and Cultural Protection: Demolition must avoid damaging the city's historical landscape and comply with sustainable renewal requirements. Buildings with historical value must have their cultural value preserved through relocation or restoration.

III. Compensation and Resettlement Measures

1. Monetary Compensation: Compensation is paid in a lump sum based on the housing price determined by a professional assessment agency (including decoration, relocation, and transition fees), with the assessment standards confirmed in writing. The compensation amount must be transparent to ensure residents' rights.
2. Property Rights Exchange: Original or alternative resettlement housing is provided, with the contract specifying common area, delivery date, and overdue compensation terms. For example, the resettlement housing should be comparable in area to the original building, with clear delivery times and liability for breach of contract.
3. Housing Voucher Resettlement: Housing vouchers are issued for purchasing designated housing. Residents can choose their housing independently, increasing resettlement flexibility.
4. Transitional Resettlement: Residents without housing after demolition can receive temporary resettlement housing or rental subsidies. The subsidy standard must be determined based on local housing prices to ensure residents' basic living needs.

IV. Policy Guidance The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development emphasizes preventing large-scale demolitions and construction, promoting urban renewal from 'extensive' to 'precise and orderly,' balancing social equity and cultural heritage. The demolition of prefabricated panel buildings must consider safety, planning, and residents' rights, avoiding resource waste and social conflicts.