Immeuble haussmannien - Travaux obligatoires en copropriété

Between Heritage and Regulation: Mandatory Works in Condominiums

Certain mandatory works in condominiums, particularly those related to bringing buildings into compliance with current regulations, may be imposed by law. In such cases, the condominium’s general meeting cannot oppose their execution.

These interventions may concern both common areas and private units, and they are financed by all co-owners in proportion to their ownership shares.

Asbestos and Lead Removal

If the presence of asbestos or lead is identified following a mandatory property diagnosis, remediation works must be carried out in both common and private areas of the building.

The general meeting is required to approve their implementation, as these materials pose health risks to occupants.

  • Asbestos removal becomes mandatory when measured levels exceed 5 fibers per liter of air.

  • For lead, the regulatory threshold is set at 1 mg/cm².

These obligations aim to protect residents’ health while preserving the long-term value of the property.

Elevator Compliance

Elevators must undergo a mandatory technical inspection every five years to ensure safety.

If safety measures required by regulation are found to be non-compliant — including:

  • proper landing door closure,

  • secure cabin access,

  • protection against door-closing impacts,

  • prevention of falling or crushing risks —

the condominium is required to carry out the necessary compliance works without delay.

These upgrades are particularly important in older residential buildings and high-end properties, where safety and quality standards are paramount.

Installation of Individual Heating and Hot Water Meters

Since March 31, 2017, the installation of individual heating meters and thermostatic valves has been mandatory in buildings equipped with collective heating systems.

This measure aims to individualize heating costs within condominiums.

The condominium manager (syndic) is responsible for implementing this requirement in buildings for which the building permit was filed before June 1, 2001.

Meters installed since October 25, 2020, must allow remote reading. This requirement will apply to all such devices from January 1, 2027, further strengthening the energy performance of collective buildings.

Mandatory Façade Renovation

Every ten years, municipal authorities may require a condominium to carry out a mandatory façade renovation in accordance with the French Construction and Housing Code.

Beyond its regulatory dimension, façade renovation often presents an opportunity to undertake broader energy improvement works, such as installing external thermal insulation. This not only ensures compliance but also enhances the property’s overall value and energy efficiency.

 

Removal of Garbage Chutes

Since June 1, 2020, the removal of garbage chutes in condominiums for hygiene reasons may be decided by a simple majority vote of co-owners present, represented, or voting by correspondence.

An absolute majority is not required.

This measure applies when the chute system can no longer be properly cleaned and disinfected, ensuring adequate sanitation standards within collective residential buildings.

A Regulatory Framework Serving Long-Term Value

Mandatory works in condominiums may sometimes be perceived as constraints. However, they contribute to:

  • ensuring occupant safety and health,

  • improving energy performance,

  • maintaining compliance with evolving regulations,

  • preserving and enhancing property value over time.

Understanding these obligations allows co-owners to better anticipate costs and manage their real estate assets with confidence and foresight.

FAQ 

What are the mandatory works in a condominium?
Mandatory works in a condominium generally relate to safety, health, hygiene and building compliance.

Can the co-owners’ meeting refuse works required by law?
No, when works are legally required, the co-owners’ meeting cannot oppose them.

Are asbestos and lead removal works mandatory in a condominium?
Yes, works must be carried out when asbestos or lead levels exceed the regulatory thresholds.

Is lift compliance mandatory in co-owned buildings?
Yes, lifts must meet current safety standards and undergo regular technical inspections.

What works may be required to improve a building’s energy performance?
Individual heating metering or certain renovation works carried out during façade restoration may meet both regulatory and energy-efficiency requirements.

Can façade renovation be imposed on a condominium?
Yes, the authorities may require façade renovation to ensure proper maintenance and preservation of the building.

Vaneau

VANEAU 
contact@vaneau.fr

Vous souhaitez vendre - Vous souhaitez acheter - Vous souhaitez estimer

Retour à l'accueil  

16/03/2026 - 15:40

Read more