UIPI is a Brussels-based umbrella organisation representing private property owners across Europe, bringing together national associations that advocate for the interests of both landlords and owner-occupiers. With around 70% of Europeans living in owner-occupied dwellings (Eurostat), this new membership further strengthens UIPI’s voice on behalf of this sector, while continuing to defend the broader spectrum of private property owners in front of EU institutions and international bodies. 

Verband Wohneigentum e.V. represents approximately 320,000 members across Germany. It provides independent consumer advice, supports sustainable and affordable homeownership, and advocates for homeowners’ interests at national level. Its membership in UIPI ensures that owner-occupiers will have a stronger presence in the European debate on housing and sustainability. 

This new affiliation also strengthens UIPI’s position in Germany, alongside its long-standing member association Haus & Grund Deutschland. Together, both organisations will bring the diverse perspectives of German homeowners and landlords to the European stage and strengthen joint advocacy efforts. 

Dr. Kai H. Warnecke, President of UIPI, emphasised: “By uniting Verband Wohneigentum and Haus & Grund Deutschland under the UIPI umbrella, we bring together the two strongest voices of German private property owners. This reinforces our ability to represent both owner-occupiers and individual private landlords at European level. Their combined perspectives ensure that UIPI can advocate more effectively for the diversity of property owners’ needs across Europe.” 

Peter Wegner, President of Verband Wohneigentum, commented, “An increasing number of decisions that shape the everyday lives of homeowners – from energy-efficient renovations to taxation – are now being made at the European level. By joining UIPI, we ensure that the voice of owner-occupiers is not only heard but taken seriously in these processes. Together with Haus & Grund, we are able to bring the German perspective to Brussels with greater impact.”