Isännöinti

Isännöinti refers to professional management services for housing companies (asunto-osakeyhtiöt) and other real estate in Finland. The service is usually provided by an isännöintiyritys or by a dedicated isännöitsijä who acts on behalf of the housing company. The isännöitsijä works under the decisions of the yhtiökokous (general meeting) and the hallitus (board) and aims to ensure smooth administration, financial management, and maintenance of common areas.

Key tasks include day-to-day administration, bookkeeping, budgeting, financial management, and the invoicing and collection of maintenance fees (vastikkeet). The isännöitsijä maintains records such as board minutes and property registers, prepares annual budgets and financial statements, and reports to the yhtiökokous. They also handle insurance matters, risk management, and ensure compliance with applicable laws, bylaws, and housing regulations.

Isännöinti covers planning and supervising maintenance and repairs, obtaining quotes, and supervising contracts with contractors for janitorial services, HVAC, building envelope, and other common-area work. They coordinate safety and property condition inspections, supervise regulatory compliance, and assist with permit applications and necessary approvals.

Organization and standards: Isännöinti can be provided by a person employed by the housing company or by an external isännöintiyritys. Professional competence, ethical standards, and adherence to industry codes of conduct (e.g., through Isännöintiliitto) are important for quality and reliability. The relationship with residents is based on transparency in fee matters and governance processes.

Importance: Isännöinti is central to the governance, maintenance, and financial stability of Finnish housing cooperatives, influencing property value and long-term sustainability.