HOWOGE's statement refers to the content of the letter sent to the media on September 3, 2026, by the "Kiez-Initiative High-Deck-Siedlung" (High-Deck-Siedlung Neighborhood Initiative) as part of a press invitation to the rally on September 8, 2026. Representatives of HOWOGE received an abridged version of the letter on September 2, 2026, as part of a personal invitation to this event.
Statement by HOWOGE Wohnungsbaugesellschaft mbH regarding the open letter from the “Kiez-Initiative High-Deck-Siedlung”
* This page has been translated via Google's Cloud Translation API. HOWOGE does not edit the content.
We take the concerns and suggestions of the tenants described in the letter from the "High-Deck-Siedlung Neighborhood Initiative" very seriously. We are aware that many residents have lived in the complex for a long time and rightly expect that defects will be reliably addressed, responsibilities clearly defined, and necessary measures implemented in a comprehensible manner.
The topics discussed touch upon various aspects of management, maintenance, and communication within the neighborhood. We continuously review where processes can be improved, information communicated more clearly, and measures implemented more reliably.
HOWOGE acquired the High-Deck housing estate in 2022 in a state requiring significant maintenance and renovation. We are working to gradually stabilize, repair, and further develop this estate. In doing so, we prioritize measures based on urgency, traffic safety, technical necessity, and feasibility. Not all issues can be resolved simultaneously; however, they are neither ignored nor deliberately postponed.
Where processes were unsatisfactory or feedback took too long, we take criticism seriously and make adjustments. At the same time, it is important to carefully examine complex damage patterns technically so that the root causes are addressed and not just individual symptoms.
Regarding the work at Michael-Bohnen-Ring 12, 14, and 16, we understand that it is very disruptive for the affected households. However, it is necessary to rectify technical defects and ensure the long-term viability of the buildings. We have already responded to criticism of the process, including closer on-site support, improved communication, and adjusted alternative accommodation options for particularly affected tenants.
We acknowledge the accusation that the measures being taken on Michael-Bohnen-Ring do not constitute modernization. The crucial point is this: All measures are clearly distinguished, both technically and legally, between maintenance/repair and modernization. Maintenance costs are borne by the landlord; tenants are only charged for costs actually incurred due to modernization. Therefore, equating all work with modernization that can be passed on to tenants is just as inaccurate as assuming that maintenance costs are being transferred to them. Furthermore, any potential modernization surcharge is limited by law and by the regulations applicable to state-owned housing companies. Our goal is to secure the long-term viability of the property and to offer residents sustainable living spaces.
HOWOGE must reject the demand for the complete implementation of measures without any impact on rents. As a state-owned housing company, HOWOGE stands for affordable housing and social responsibility. At the same time, it is obligated to manage its properties economically, legally, and with a view to the future. Extensive
Modernizations, energy efficiency improvements, and fundamental technical upgrades incur significant costs. Whether and to what extent these costs can be factored into tenant rent increases depends on legal requirements and the political and social framework applicable to state-owned housing companies, to which HOWOGE adheres. A general commitment to implementing all measures in a way that is completely neutral with regard to total rent would be neither ethical nor economically responsible.
HOWOGE also rejects the demand to grant tenants direct co-determination rights regarding the scope, type, and execution of renovations. Naturally, tenants are informed, consulted, and considered in the planning process as much as possible. Close coordination is essential, especially for work in occupied apartments. However, decisions regarding technical standards, construction processes, contracts, safety requirements, legal obligations, and economic viability remain the responsibility of the building owner. In our view, participation means: early information, transparent communication, consideration of particular hardships, and a structured dialogue – not the shifting of entrepreneurial and legal responsibility onto individual interest groups.
HOWOGE is committed to the Berlin state's promise of affordable housing and responsibly implements the corresponding social requirements. Our goal is to combine necessary investments in our existing properties with the protection of affordable rents.
We expressly acknowledge the desire for transparency and dialogue. Therefore, we invited representatives of the tenants from the initiative to a meeting with the management of the customer center. Unfortunately, the offer of a meeting on September 1, 2026, was declined in advance, citing the action announced for September 8, 2026.
We regret this, because from our point of view, open questions and differing perceptions can best be clarified in direct conversation.
Our offer to talk still stands. We will propose another meeting with the customer center management as soon as possible to discuss the issues raised in a structured, objective, and solution-oriented manner.
HOWOGE will not participate in the initiative's rally on September 8, 2026.
Our goal remains: The High-Deck housing estate should be gradually stabilized, repaired, and further developed to ensure its future viability – in a socially responsible, technically sound manner and within the scope of a state-owned housing company. We rely on dialogue, transparency, and concrete improvements rather than blanket blame.