Technical assistance for social housing

The experience of EMAU JoãoBem

Abstract

This article stems from a university extension activity linked to the JoãoBem Model Architecture and Urbanism Office (EMAU JoãoBem), at the School of Architecture and Urbanism (FAUrb), Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel). EMAU JoãoBem operates across different areas: technical assistance in social housing (ATHIS), emergency actions through “EMAU Emergencial,” and practices in experimental construction sites. ATHIS, guaranteed by Law No. 11.888/2008, ensures low-income families free access to specialized technical services. The purpose of this article is to present an experience report developed within the scope of ATHIS, focusing on a usucapião (adverse possession) process, highlighting the methodology adopted for the procedures and their outcomes. The text details the steps involved in the development of the work, emphasizing the main challenges faced—from formalizing the service to organizing the technical documentation required for this modality. This experience contributes to documenting and systematizing the procedures involved in the usucapião process, broadening the understanding of the role of technical advisory in urban contexts and strengthening teaching and learning by enabling students to work on real cases.