korteriühistuseadust

Korteriühistuseadust is a legal framework in Estonia that governs the ownership and management of apartment buildings. It was established to address the challenges of managing shared property and to ensure that residents have a say in the decision-making processes that affect their living environment. The law applies to buildings with at least three apartments and is enforced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications.

Under korteriühistuseadust, the building is considered a single entity, and the residents collectively own the building. Each apartment is represented by a shareholder, who has the right to vote on matters that affect the building, such as repairs, renovations, and changes to the building's rules. The shareholders elect a board of directors to manage the building's affairs, which includes hiring and overseeing the management company, approving budgets, and making decisions on behalf of the shareholders.

The law also provides for a dispute resolution mechanism, known as the "korteriühistu", which allows residents to resolve conflicts and make decisions without the need for legal proceedings. This mechanism is designed to be fast, cost-effective, and accessible to all residents.

Korteriühistuseadust aims to promote a sense of community and shared responsibility among residents, while also ensuring that the building is managed efficiently and effectively. It has been widely adopted in Estonia and is considered a key factor in the country's successful housing policy.