These are the duties of an owner

It's a nice idea: relaxing on the terrace of your own property while children and their friends romp around in the garden. For many people, a property with a garden is still a lifelong dream that needs to be fulfilled. Once you have found the right four walls plus attractive greenery, one thing is quickly forgotten in the joyful frenzy: what you must, may and should do as an owner.

Obligation to use

If the new property is to be used not only for residential but also for commercial purposes, this is only possible if a building permit has been obtained. If the property is only approved for residential use, it may not be used for commercial purposes,

Duty to tolerate

There are external influences that you must tolerate: these include, for example, the local refuse collection service collecting your garbage and your property being connected to the municipal water supply. Even if energy suppliers have to lay pipes to connect to the supply network, this must be tolerated. The situation is different with energy companies - you are free to choose between them.

Duty to clear and grit

When winter arrives with ice and snow, property owners are obliged to clear and grit the paths in front of their property, even if they are public footpaths. If you fail to do this and someone slips and injures themselves, you are liable as the owner.

Traffic safety obligation

This obligation is also intended to protect third parties. You must ensure that no one can be injured by any defects or damage to your property. This can include loose roof tiles, your children's swing set that is no longer secure or rusty nails on the outside wall. If something does happen, you are liable as the owner. So check regularly to see if everything is still intact.

Energy-efficient refurbishment measures

Not only buyers, but also owners are obliged to carry out energy-efficient refurbishment measures. Particularly in view of the heat transition or if you are planning to sell at some point, you should look at what you can and must do. A renovated property increases in value and finds a new owner more quickly. A local professional estate agent can advise you as an expert in their field.

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Notes

For reasons of better readability, the generic masculine is used in this text. Female and other gender identities are explicitly included where this is necessary for the statement.

Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific individual case.

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