Asuntoosakeyhtiöön

Asunto-osakeyhtiö (often shortened as asunto-osakeyhtiö) is a common form of housing ownership in Finland used for multi‑unit residential buildings. In this arrangement the building and its common areas are owned by a separate legal entity, the housing company, and residents acquire shares in the company. Each share entitles the holder to occupy a designated apartment and to participate in the company’s governance.

Formation and structure: An asunto-osakeyhtiö is formed under the general rules for limited liability companies and the specific housing company legislation. The company owns the property, including the building and shared facilities. Shareholders own the company’s shares, which grant the right to inhabit a particular dwelling. Day‑to‑day management is conducted by a general meeting of shareholders and a board of directors, often with a property manager or caretaker.

Shareholders’ rights and duties: Shareholders have the right to use their apartment and to vote in the general meetings, typically in proportion to their shares. They are responsible for paying the monthly yhtiövastike (maintenance fee), which covers operating costs, maintenance, insurance, and possibly loan repayments if the yhtiö has borrowed for construction or renovations. The housing company handles major repairs and maintenance of common areas and structural elements, while owners maintain their own apartments according to agreed standards and rules.

Transfers and governance: When an apartment is sold, the buyer purchases the corresponding shares in the housing company and gains occupancy rights to the dwelling. The transfer is documented through a deed and related share transfer, and governance is guided by the yhtiö’s articles of association and applicable laws, which regulate budgeting, renovations, and financing decisions.

Legal context and use: The asunto-osakeyhtiö is a widespread and established form of multi‑dwelling ownership in Finland, providing private occupancy coupled with collective management of the building and shared spaces.