The ÉKM Decree in the Light of BIM: How the Digital Model Helps Meet Energy and Operational Requirements

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is no longer merely a technological advancement; it is a fundamental requirement for public construction investments. The ÉKM (Ministry of Construction and Transport) decrees taking effect in 2024 and 2025—Decree 31/2024. (VIII. 22.) ÉKM and Decree 27/2025. (VIII. 28.) ÉKM—are radically transforming the preparation, execution, and operation of construction projects.

In this digital transition, AFMTEC’s experts assist developers, designers, and facility managers in complying with legal regulations and truly leveraging the benefits of BIM-based digitalization—from data-driven decision-making to efficient facility management.

Why Are the ÉKM Decrees Important?

The goal of the Ministry of Construction and Transport is to ensure that data in public investments is available transparently, managed digitally, and stored in a standardized format. The common direction of the two decrees is clear: making BIM-based digitalization mandatory for all project stakeholders.

• Decree 31/2024. (VIII. 22.) ÉKM – On the conditions for Building Information Modeling (BIM) based design and technical execution. (Effective from: September 21, 2024)
• Decree 27/2025. (VIII. 28.) ÉKM – On the rules for the operation of public investments and the selection of the operator. (Effective from: September 27, 2025)

Decree 31/2024. ÉKM – The Mandatory Application of BIM

Decree 31/2024. ÉKM came into effect on September 21, 2024, and stipulates that the application of BIM is mandatory in all public construction investments if the conditions specified in the decree are met.

This is not simply a technical innovation; it is a new work culture that ensures transparent data flow and digital collaboration among project stakeholders. The decree mandates that in every phase of the project—from preparation through construction to facility management—information must be created, managed, and handed over within a building information model.

The model contains geometric data, alphanumeric information, and metadata, ensuring the continuous availability of appropriate data throughout the investment’s entire lifecycle. This digital data structure prevents information loss between design, construction, and operation—ensuring that every decision is based on reliable, real-world data.

AFMTEC’s experts also discussed the significance and impact of Decree 31/2024. ÉKM on the Hungarian construction industry in the DIG-IT Podcast. The conversation highlights how BIM can become a daily efficiency-boosting tool in projects. Available here: [How is the BIM Decree Changing the Hungarian Construction Industry?]

EIR – pre-BEP – BEP: The Digital Requirement System

The decree defines three key documents that guarantee the transparency and uniformity of the BIM process:

• EIR (Exchange Information Requirements): The client’s BIM information requirements document, which details all essential BIM-related expectations for the investment.
• pre-BEP (Preliminary BIM Execution Plan): The contractor’s preliminary BIM strategy, submitted as part of a tender, demonstrating how they intend to meet the client’s expectations.
• BEP (BIM Execution Plan): The final BIM execution plan, which records the mandatory data management rules to be applied during the project.

Common Data Environment (CDE) – The Collaboration Platform of the Future

The decree mandates the establishment of a Common Data Environment (CDE) for every project, where all plans, models, and documents can be managed securely, transparently, and with full version control.

The use of a CDE will become mandatory for all public investments starting July 1, 2028. It serves as the “backbone” of the BIM process, ensuring that data is accessible in one centralized, standardized system for all project participants.

Decree 27/2025. ÉKM – The Digitalization of Facility Management

Decree 27/2025. ÉKM will take effect on September 27, 2025, and regulates the BIM-based registration of facility management. The legislation aims to ensure that, following the closure of the investment phase, operation also becomes data-driven and digitalized.

This includes, among other things:

• Developing an operational strategy on a BIM basis.
• The application of smart metering devices (energy, water, heat, gas).
• The digital archiving and analysis of data within the BIM model.

In this way, the BIM model becomes the building’s “digital twin,” supporting maintenance, cost planning, and energy optimization.

How Does AFMTEC Help with Compliance?

AFMTEC’s experts offer comprehensive solutions for complying with the ÉKM decrees:

• BIM auditing and strategic planning.
• Development of EIR, pre-BEP, and BEP documentation.
• Implementation and operation of CDE systems.
• Creation of operational BIM models.
• Ensuring energy data analysis and digital continuity.

AFMTEC’s goal is to ensure that clients not only comply with the law but also profit long-term from the efficiency and data-driven operation that BIM provides.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ÉKM Decrees and BIM

1. Who does the ÉKM decree apply to?

Decree 31/2024. ÉKM applies to all stakeholders involved in public construction investments: developers/clients, designers, contractors, facility managers, and project managers. Decree 27/2025. ÉKM specifically regulates the digital requirements of the operational phase.

2. What exactly does a BIM model mean according to the decree?

The BIM model is a data-driven, three-dimensional digital representation of the building that contains all its geometric and technical data, as well as its metadata—covering the entire lifecycle.

3. When does the application of BIM become mandatory?

The decree prescribes a phased rollout:

• Building and road construction: from September 21, 2024.
• Railway construction: from July 1, 2026.
• Hydraulic engineering: from July 1, 2027.
• Utility construction: from July 1, 2028.

4. What is the difference between EIR, pre-BEP, and BEP?

The EIR contains the client’s requirements, the pre-BEP is the contractor’s preliminary proposal, and the BEP is the final, contract-level BIM execution plan. Together, they ensure standardized data exchange and transparent collaboration.

5. What is a CDE, and why is it important in BIM?

The CDE (Common Data Environment) is a shared digital platform where all project data—models, plans, documents—can be managed uniformly, securely, and with version control. Without a CDE, the BIM process cannot be complete, as it is the central hub for data flow.

6. What happens if an organization does not yet use BIM?

AFMTEC helps assess your current BIM maturity level and guides the implementation of necessary processes step-by-step. This includes structuring data, implementing a CDE system, and preparing BIM documentation (EIR, pre-BEP, BEP).

7. Is operational data also part of the BIM model?

Yes, based on Decree 27/2025. ÉKM, data generated during operation—such as energy consumption, maintenance cycles, and warranties—must be recorded within the BIM model.

8. What benefits does BIM offer beyond complying with the ÉKM decree?

BIM is not just a compliance tool: it increases efficiency, reduces the margin for error, facilitates data-driven decision-making, and strongly supports the achievement of sustainability goals.

Prepare for the ÉKM decrees in time—let BIM be your advantage, not your challenge!

The 31/2024. and 27/2025. ÉKM decrees bring not only new obligations but also a real opportunity for construction organizations: BIM-based operations increase efficiency, reduce risks, and make the entire investment process fully transparent.

AFMTEC’s expert team helps ensure that your projects comply with the regulations from day one, while fully exploiting the true benefits of digitalization. Contact us today, and let’s develop a tailored BIM strategy for your organization together.