Property owners in the Pelkum-Wiescherhöfen district can receive up to 15,000 euros in subsidies for renovation or reconstruction projects. Two district architects are available to provide comprehensive guidance on green building initiatives, solar technology, and facade improvements.
Whether you're a property owner or tenant, managing real estate involves numerous considerations that can be both costly and overwhelming for inexperienced individuals. To address these challenges, the Pelkum-Wiescherhöfen district has established a program featuring specialized district architects who work on behalf of the city of Hamm, offering consultation services on various property improvement topics. Additionally, financial support is available through the Facade and Courtyard Area Program, which property owners can apply for through formal applications.
The deployment of district architects was made possible through the Integrated Urban Development Concept for Pelkum/Wiescherhöfen. "The goal is to enhance the urban space. We show property owners possibilities for improvement," explains Ulrich Victor-Ulmke, one of the two district architects available for consultation. Victor-Ulmke is a freelance architect specializing in energy consulting and real estate valuation. Together with interior architect Eike Lamster, he provides consultation services at the district office on Pelkumer Platz every Wednesday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Friday from 12 PM to 6 PM. Both architects are also involved in similar projects in Essen.
The foundation for having district architects stems from Pelkum-Wiescherhöfen being designated as a renovation area with funding needs, according to René Krusche from the Urban Planning Department. "Here in Pelkum, this situation arose from the elimination of mining operations, which caused and continues to cause significant structural changes. Therefore, the urban space should be beautified, including making it greener," Krusche explains. Within the Facade and Courtyard Area Program, certain measures can receive special funding support.
"Improving not only the exterior appearance but also the function and quality of life is important to us," emphasizes Victor-Ulmke. Eligible measures include renovation, visual design, or restoration of facades; renewal or reconstruction of stairs and railings; facade and roof surface greening; and landscaping design of courtyard and garden areas. The district architects provide free consultation on how these measures can be implemented, what processes are involved, and what corresponding funding might be available. "We are experienced professionals who know all the processes," Lamster notes with a smile.
To qualify for funding, applicants must submit three different quotes and file an application with any necessary permits. Applications are then reviewed and, in the best case scenario, approved. It's crucial that funding is only possible if work begins only after receiving the approval notice, and personal labor contributions are not eligible for funding. Additionally, the program only applies to properties with at least two floors, regardless of whether they are private or commercial. When all requirements are met, funding can be provided as a subsidy of up to 15,000 euros per property, which does not need to be repaid. However, applicants must cover at least 50 percent of the costs themselves.
In renovation areas, enhanced tax depreciation is also possible for modernization and maintenance measures, which can be explored through the tax office. "The beautiful thing about this project is not only the funding but also the free, neutral consultation on measures beyond that," says Lamster. Whether property owners, tenants, or lessees of commercial spaces, any interested party can come for consultation. In addition to open office hours, specific appointments or on-site visits can be arranged to examine affected buildings together. "Otherwise, it's sufficient to simply drop by with a floor plan or a few photos," Lamster explains.
Consultations can also cover topics such as balcony power plants, bicycle parking spaces, energy efficiency, and climate neutrality. After consultation, individuals can still decide against implementing any measures. According to Lamster, the district architects' services are well-received: "Several people come with very specific questions. Overall, we believe the program is still underutilized. We have already implemented quite a bit, but we can do even more."
The architects emphasize that they don't want to compete with traditional architectural firms but rather provide initial guidance. For example, building permit applications would still require consultation with traditional building planners. Additional information about the funding program and funding catalog is available at www.hamm.de/sanierungsgebiet-pelkum. Free lectures are also offered at the district office in collaboration with police and consumer centers: November 5th on "Reducing Energy Consumption and Increasing Living Comfort" and November 19th on "How to Protect House and Apartment," both at 6:30 PM. The federal program "Future-Oriented Inner Cities and Centers" also plays an important role in these initiatives.
