BL is the danish federation of non-profit housing providers. We seek to influence the development of the non-profit housing sector and its role in the welfare society – economically, technically, and socially. Our political arenas: 

Locally in our 11 districts in collaboration with the 98 municipalities in Denmark.

Nationally in collaboration with the politicians of the Parliament.

Internationally through our work in Housing Europe and NBO Housing Nordic.

To understand how the non-profit housing sector has become what it is today, a short glance at history is helpful.

The beginning

The first move away from a housing market operating solely on market terms started in 1853. Copenhagen was densely populated with poor conditions for the working class. An outbreak of cholera inspired "The Medical Association against Coleras Spread" to build Brumleby on Øster Fælled, the first philanthropic housing initiative in Copenhagen. The idea was to construct permanent dwellings for the working class outside the city walls with better sanitary systems, clean air and space.

Later, self-organized workers, trade unions and the workers' co-op, initiated housing associations and companies.

The welfare state

The first law on public support for construction was adopted in 1887; However, several of the earliest associations were quickly dissolved, and speculation in housing and construction resulted in a huge crack in 1908. The political initiatives following this event created the foundation for the social housing model as we know today – with public funding, a strict legislative framework, and revolving funds.  But it wasn’t until 1933 that the idea of non-profit affordable housing for the working-class, became statutory.  Along with significant social reforms, these initiatives are often seen as the beginning of the Danish welfare state. Following this event, only approved housing associations and companies, whose funds were used solely for housing purposes, could benefit from public support.

The industrialization of Danish construction

The implementation of several state regulations, including the so-called Assembly circular that required housing to be built by prefabricated elements to obtain public support, started the industrialization of Danish construction in the 1960s. This paved the way for the largest building boom in Danish history. Over 800,000 homes were built in the period 1960-1979, out of which approx. 200,000 was non-profit housing.  All over Denmark large Le Corbusier inspired housing areas arose.  The intention was to give low- and middle-income citizens decent homes with space, access to green areas and life quality.

Regardless of your age, whether you are single or married, are studying, busy working 9-5, or you are retired, you are eligible for non-profit housing. Besides providing homes for regular individuals and families the housing organizations also have a special obligation to provide decent homes for groups with special needs. This happens in close collaboration with the municipality and applies, for example, to people with physical disabilities, mental illnesses, refugees and groups with a range of social challenges.

The basics of housing allocation:

The waiting list The majority of tenants obtain their non-profit rental home through the waiting list system. Everyone can sign up and there is no income criteria. At Danmarkbolig.dk you can see all 600.000 homes and find out which are vacant.

Socially conditioned housing allocation:

Every fourth vacant apartment is offered to the municipality who can distribute it to vulnerable families or individuals with unmet housing needs.