For anyone considering buying residential property in Kharkiv, there are two issues that deserve careful attention before discussions about a particular property even begin. The first concerns eligibility for compensation if the property is damaged or destroyed. The second concerns the legal status of the building itself. These are not minor legal details. They may influence whether a particular property is worth considering at all.
eVidnovlennia and Eligibility for Compensation
Under the eVidnovlennia programme rules in force at the time of purchase, foreign property owners are not eligible to receive state compensation for residential property damaged or destroyed as a result of the war. Compensation is currently available only to Ukrainian citizens. For buyers considering property in Kharkiv and the surrounding region, this is an important factor to understand before making a purchase.
If the property were to be damaged or destroyed after the purchase, a foreign owner would not be entitled to compensation under the current programme rules. Before proceeding with a transaction, it is advisable to establish:
- whether an application has already been submitted under the eVidnovlennia programme;
- whether an official damage assessment has been carried out;
- whether the property has been entered into the State Register of Damaged and Destroyed Property;
- whether compensation has already been granted.
Otherwise, a buyer may acquire a property for which compensation rights have already been exercised or are no longer available. If the property is purchased in joint ownership with a Ukrainian citizen, this does not automatically change the situation. Under the rules currently in force, compensation may only be available in respect of the ownership share held by the Ukrainian citizen.
Buildings That Have Not Been Commissioned
Because Kharkiv remains a frontline city, a significant number of residential development projects were suspended or postponed after the start of the full-scale invasion. As a result, there are completed residential buildings that have not yet been officially commissioned.
This does not mean that every such property presents a problem. However, purchasing an apartment in one of these buildings requires additional legal and technical review. It is important to verify not only the apartment itself, but also:
- the developer’s documentation;
- the legal structure of the transaction;
- the construction status;
- whether the building has been officially commissioned;
- whether ownership can be properly registered.
For international buyers in particular, decisions made from abroad should never rely solely on photographs, floor plans or an attractive asking price. Reviewing these matters forms part of my transaction support. Where more complex legal issues arise, I work together with qualified lawyers and notaries.
Questions?
If you are considering a particular property or simply want to discuss a possible purchase scenario, please contact me through the Feedback Form. I will do my best to help you find the right answer or direct you to the appropriate specialist where necessary. Please note: The rules governing the eVidnovlennia programme may change over time. This information reflects the legislation and programme rules in force at the time of purchase.