The population in Sörmland has increased, but housing construction has not been sufficient in recent years. This is stated by the County Administrative Board in a recent housing analysis.

There is a housing shortage in all of the county's municipalities and for the fifth year in a row. This applies to all types of housing, but mainly rental properties. Young people and newcomers find it difficult to enter the housing market as competition for rental rights is high, according to the analysis.

- The municipalities are facing several housing social challenges. The housing shortage leads to segregation, housing shortages and, at worst, homelessness. More and more people need help arranging their own housing, says Governor Beatrice Ask in a press release.

Factors limiting construction

Last year, the population of the county increased by 2,845 people and more than 1,300 new homes were completed. During the same period, 1,850 new homes were started. According to the analysis, there are various factors that limit housing construction in the county. These include high production costs, difficulties for builders to obtain loans and a lack of detailed plans on attractive land.

- The constant challenge is a housing market where the housing supply meets the needs of the population, says county architect Torbjörg Sekse in a press release.

The analysis was conducted before the outbreak of the corona virus and the likelihood that the pandemic affects housing construction is high, according to the county administrative board.