New regulations introduced for housing purchase and construction

Important changes are expected in Uzbekistan to regulate the real estate market and protect the interests of citizens. Starting April 1, 2026, housing purchase and sale agreements must be carried out exclusively in non-cash form, i.e., through banks. This step will serve to reduce the shadow economy in the construction sector and increase tax revenues. Reports podrobno.uz.

Also, a non-cash payment procedure will be introduced for all goods and services exceeding 25 million soums. This rule will also apply to public services, utility payments, alcohol and tobacco products, and the sale of cars manufactured less than 10 years ago.

One of the most important innovations is the mandatory introduction of an escrow system in the construction sector. According to the draft law developed by the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services, buyers' funds will now be transferred not directly to the developer, but to a special escrow account at a bank. The construction company will be able to receive these funds only after the house is fully completed and the documents are processed.

This system protects citizens from fraud and eliminates problems related to unfinished construction objects. The escrow system, which is currently operating on a voluntary basis, will become mandatory across the republic starting July 1, 2026. The government plans to adopt this draft law soon to minimize risks in the construction sector.