Housing and communal services-2026: what changes in tariffs await Russians and how the payment procedure will be updated

In 2026, updated tariff indexation rules will come into force in the housing and communal services sector, the procedure for charging and paying fees will change, and the requirements for digital data accounting will expand. At the same time, the basic calculation methodology remains, and changes will be introduced in stages throughout the year. Details can be found in the Izvestia article.

Major changes in housing and communal services-2026

In 2026, Russia will undergo major changes in the housing and communal services (HCS) system. Utility tariffs will be indexed twice, the deadlines for issuing and paying receipts will change, and debt control will increase. The new rules were prepared on the basis of the decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 3413-r dated November 25, 2025.

According to the document, the first marginal index has been in effect since January 1, 2026 — the national average is set at 1.7%. The second stage of the increase is scheduled for October 1, 2026, when regional indices are introduced for each subject of the Russian Federation: the growth range is from 8 to 22%, depending on the region.

Photo: IZVESTIA/Dmitry Korotaev

At the same time, starting in 2026, it is planned to revise the deadlines for invoicing and payment of utility bills: payment documents must be sent no later than the fifth day of the month, and payment must be made before the fifteenth day of the following month. The new deadlines are becoming mandatory for all management companies, regardless of the decisions of the general meeting of owners.

According to Dmitry Bondar, a public figure and housing and communal services expert, the basic accrual methodology will remain the same, but citizens should take into account in advance the two stages of indexing and the updated requirements for issuing receipts. He warned that the main thing is to be prepared for an increase in payments and to be attentive when receiving bills.

How tariffs will change in 2026

The first increase, by 1.7%, is due to the postponement of the traditional July indexation to January and an increase in base rates such as VAT, as well as an increase in the cost of energy and resources. The main increase is expected in the fall. In some regions, such as the Stavropol Territory, tariffs may rise to 22%, in others the increase will be about 8-9%.

According to the Bank of Russia, such an increase in tariffs could add about 0.4% of a point to the inflation rate — a significant contribution, given the share of utility costs in the family budget.

Photo: IZVESTIA/Konstantin Kokoshkin

According to industry forecasts, the average increase in the total payment for housing and communal services in Russia in 2026 may be about 9.9% compared to the previous year. Higher growth can be observed in those regions where the indices exceed the average — such decisions of the regional authorities take into account the cost structure, the deterioration of utility networks and the economic situation.

What will become more expensive and new payment rules

The indexation will affect most utilities: cold and hot water, heating, sanitation, gas supply, electricity, and municipal solid waste (MSW) management.

At the same time, the calculation method itself according to metering devices or standards will remain unchanged. As Dmitry Bondar noted, there are no plans to change the formulas set out in Russian Government Decree No. 354 and Articles 154-157 of the Housing Code. The changes relate specifically to indexes, deadlines, and administrative rules for issuing receipts.

The new payment deadlines — no later than the 15th day of the month after receipt of the invoice — are designed to facilitate financial planning for citizens and reduce the risks of delays. At the same time, management companies are deprived of the right to change deadlines independently. This can increase revenue stability, but for residents it will require care and proper budget planning.

Photo: IZVESTIA/Yulia Mayorova

Control over debts and their accounting is also being strengthened: information on debts, houses and charges must be timely entered into the state housing and communal services system, and data on enforcement proceedings must be updated by bailiffs. This approach will increase transparency and reduce the number of disputed charges.