New Regulations on Detached House Construction Take Effect from 1 July 2026: Key Changes Homeowners Should Know 

On 15 June 2026, the Government issued Decree No. 207/2026/ND-CP, detailing a number of provisions of the Law on Construction relating to construction quality management, construction execution, and maintenance of construction works. One of the Decree’s key highlights is the introduction of more comprehensive requirements governing the construction and management of detached houses.

Stricter design requirements for detached houses

The Decree introduces a risk-based approach to design requirements, depending on the scale and complexity of the project:

• Detached houses with fewer than three storeys, no basement, a total floor area of less than 250 m², and a height of under 12 metres may be designed by the homeowner.
• Detached houses with fewer than seven storeys or one basement must be designed by organisations or individuals possessing the requisite professional qualifications and experience.
• Detached houses with seven or more storeys, or two or more basements, must be designed by a qualified entity meeting the statutory competency requirements. In addition, the design dossier must fully comply with applicable fire safety regulations.

Enhanced construction management obligations

The Decree also imposes a number of obligations on homeowners during the construction process. In particular, homeowners are required to:

Install a construction information sign at the site entrance displaying the information required under the Decree, including the homeowner’s name, contact address, and telephone number;

Organise and supervise construction activities, while assuming responsibility for construction safety, the safety of neighbouring properties, and environmental protection throughout the construction period; and

Ensure that construction and construction supervision are carried out in accordance with the Decree. Homeowners are also encouraged to maintain and retain project records for detached houses in accordance with the applicable regulations.

In addition, the construction of detached houses, as well as any conversion of the use of part or all of such buildings, must comply with applicable laws on fire prevention and fighting, environmental protection, and other relevant legal requirements.

The Decree takes effect on 1 July 2026.