korteriomandiühistu

Korteriomandiühistu is a non-profit association formed by the owners of separate apartments in a building where each owner holds a korteriomand (apartment title). The association acts as the legal entity responsible for managing and maintaining the common property and for representing the owners’ collective interests in relation to the property. The concept and rules are defined in Estonian law on apartment ownership and condominium (korteriomandi ja korteriühistu seadus) and the general regime for non-profit associations (mittetulundusühingud).

Formation and status

An korteriomandiühistu typically arises when a building consists of multiple independently owned apartments. It is registered as a legal person in the Estonian commercial register and may own, manage, or procure rights and services relating to the building’s common parts, such as stairs, roofs, courtyards, and infrastructure.

Governance and decision-making

The association is governed by a general meeting of all members and a management body (board) elected by the members. The board handles day-to-day management, while major decisions are made at general meetings. Financial reporting, budgeting, and audits may be required depending on the size of the association.

Responsibilities and powers

Key tasks include maintaining and repairing the common property, arranging utilities and services, setting and collecting maintenance fees, insuring the building, and ensuring compliance with safety and legal requirements. The association may enter into contracts on behalf of the owners and enforce rules governing the use of common spaces.

Relationship to owners

Owners hold their individual korteriomand and share rights to common parts through the association. They contribute to costs through maintenance fees and participate in decisions about the building’s management and future investments.

Distinction from other forms

Korteriomandiühistu is a specific form of owners’ association tied to apartment ownership by individual korteriomandid. It operates alongside or within the broader framework of Estonian apartment ownership law, alongside other possible organizational forms like korteriühistu, depending on the property structure.