Latvia's Balcony Crisis: High Costs and Legal Disputes Delay Repairs
Balcony repairs in Latvia's cities, particularly Riga, have become a pressing issue. With around 400 buildings managed by the Riga Housing Manager in need of repairs, the costs and legal responsibilities are causing disputes among residents.
Light repairs to a balcony can set owners back around a thousand euros per square meter. However, legally, balconies are considered common property, not the responsibility of individual apartment owners. This often leads to disagreements among residents about who should foot the bill.
Improper use of balconies, such as laying tiles or blocking ventilation gaps, can exacerbate moisture damage and accelerate deterioration. Despite the lack of specific data on emergency repairs, the issue is prevalent enough to warrant concern.
In 2024, only 20 balconies in Riga were repaired, a significant drop from the 35 repaired the previous year. The high cost and complicated nature of the work are often cited as reasons for delay. Disputes are resolved by civil engineers who assess the technical condition of all balconies, with repairs becoming a priority when they pose a threat to residents' safety.
The ideal solution, according to experts, is to renovate balconies in a timely manner alongside the entire facade of the building. However, balconies are often postponed in favor of other repairs that affect all residents.
The state of balconies in Riga's buildings is a growing concern, with high costs and legal uncertainties contributing to delays in repairs. Timely renovation, ideally alongside full facade repairs, is the recommended solution to ensure safety and maintain property values.
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