The transfer of plots to the Generalitat for the construction of social housing has become the most effective measure among municipalities. Cities such as Tarragona, Reus, Cambrils, el Vendrell, and Valls have already provided land for the Catalan executive's plan to build 50,000 homes by 2030. Simultaneously, the application of IBI surcharges for empty flats and the purchase of homes through pre-emption are other strategies.
Regarding self-construction, only Tarragona and Reus are promoting direct projects. In the capital of Tarragona, 192 homes are being built, expected to be finished by June 2026. The use of IBI surcharges extends to municipalities like Vila-seca, Tarragona, and Torredembarra, where the penalty can reach 150% for owners of multiple unoccupied dwellings.
“"Councils that do not have strong financial muscle and cannot provide aid to the population can indeed offer fiscal benefits."
Other municipalities, such as Torredembarra and Montblanc, have opted for IBI bonuses of up to 95% for homes designated for social rent. In Valls, the council has attempted to contact Sareb to mobilize its housing stock, despite the difficulties acknowledged by the Housing Councilor.
“"We have tried to talk to them, but it is very difficult to make contact. I suppose they are not too interested in us chasing them."
Despite the urgency, tourist municipalities with a high volume of second residences, such as Salou and Vandellòs i l'Hospitalet de l'Infant, have not yet implemented any concrete measures. Salou has only announced the drafting of a Local Housing Plan.
