Apartment building

The Czech Building Act (Act No. 283/2021 Coll.) defines an apartment building (bytový dům) as a residential building in which more than half of the floor area is used for housing. The law sets no limit on the number of flats or storeys. A family house is a narrower category with limits: at most three separate flats, two above-ground storeys, one underground storey and an attic, or a set-back third storey. A residential building exceeding these limits is an apartment building.

Where the building type is recorded

The land register and the RÚIAN register record the building's use, for example 'apartment building' or 'family house'. The purpose for which the building may be used is set by the building authority in the permit and in the occupancy approval. In zoning plans, apartment buildings usually belong to 'housing in apartment buildings' areas (BH).

How flats in an apartment building are owned

• Freehold flats: the building is divided into units, each registered on its own title sheet in the land register, and the owners manage the building together, usually through an owners' association.
• Cooperative flats: a housing cooperative owns the building and each member has a right to rent their flat.
• Rental building with a single owner: flats are rented, not bought.

What to ask when buying a flat

Find out who manages the building, what the monthly service charges and the building management contribution are, how much has been saved and which repairs are planned. In older buildings ask about the roof, facade, risers and lift; in panel buildings also about panel joints and balconies. In a building divided into units, balconies, loggias and terraces are common parts of the building even if only one owner uses them.