In this article, the authors present a proposal for a set of criteria for assessing residential buildings in terms of their level of proactivity. The criteria outlined by the authors were developed based on the technological guidelines contained in the latest building directive (EPBD - Energy Performance of Buildings Directive) published in April 2024, as well as guidelines derived from the concept of sustainable construction, particularly focusing on three aspects: environmental, social, and economic. Given the large-scale actions currently underway as part of the so-called "Renovation Wave" program for buildings across the European Union, there is a need to define appropriate directions and processes to achieve the intended goals. In the article, the authors define the new concept of proactive construction and present a set of categories and criteria that should be considered when assessing residential buildings to ensure they meet the newly established requirements for their one- or multi-stage renovation.