May 18, 2023, 3:37 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Property owners taking over a condominium should know the difference between individual and common property. Both require inspections for construction acceptance.
During the construction acceptance, the owner confirms that the delivered property matches the contractual agreement. In the case of condominiums, the acceptance is divided. Both the apartment as individual property and the common property must be accepted. How do these areas differ? And what should one particularly pay attention to during the acceptance of apartments?
Construction Acceptance for Apartments–What to Consider
Common property typically includes the stairwell, garden, or laundry room. Essentially, it is “all shared areas,” says Paul Lichtenthäler from the Association of Private Builders (VPB). “The roof, as well as windows and doors, are usually included.” According to the association, owners should not agree to written acceptances but conduct them on-site.
Related: Why You Should Avoid Partial Acceptances When Building a House
To reliably identify potential defects, the VPB advises consulting an expert if in doubt. “A professionally trained eye sees more and knows where the critical points are.” This often includes “the issue of seals,” according to the spokesperson. Are flat roofs properly sealed? Is the drainage functioning correctly?
Burden of Proof Reversed
Fundamentally, construction acceptance, alongside signing the purchase contract, is “the most important legal act in building,” according to the VPB. By declaring that the work has been performed as agreed, the burden of proof for defects is reversed, informs the Bauherren-Schutzbund website.
Additionally, because the risk of damage or destruction of the construction work due to external influences transfers from the builder to the owner, the owner must now insure the property themselves–for example, against fire, water, or storm damage.
with material from dpa