Apartment Owners, Not Managers, Are Responsible for Building Maintenance

End of Privatization and New Reality

The majority of Latvia's population lives in multi-apartment buildings, mostly built during the Soviet era. With the privatization process finally concluded at the end of 2025, responsibility for building maintenance has fully shifted to apartment owners. However, many owners still believe that the state or the manager should take care of the roof, stairwells, and basement.

The Role of Association "Mājoklis"

The Latvian Association of Apartment Owners "Mājoklis" unites over 3,000 members, including apartment owner associations, businesses, property managers, and individuals. The association actively participates in drafting legislation and advises residents on property management.

Three Components of Successful Management

According to the association's representatives, successful building management requires informed owners, a competent manager, and high-quality regulations. The weakest link is owner awareness – many do not realize that they have the right and duty to decide on building maintenance.

Difference Between Management and Maintenance

The association stresses that management is strategic planning and decision-making, while maintenance involves technical tasks performed under the manager's direction. A manager should not operate only in emergency mode.

Digital Tool "Mājas lieta"

The section "Mājas lieta" in the Construction Information System (BIS) gives apartment owners access to building documentation, including reports, estimates, and voting results. Digital participation has increased owner engagement in decision-making.

Call for Active Participation

Association chairwoman Dace Vārna urges apartment owners to be active: "A building cannot be managed by indifference."