I own an apartment, can I replace my windows of my own accord?

Windows can be replaced without permission from the joint owners’ association if the basic deed of co-ownership states that the window frames are private and replacing the windows does not alter the shared exterior wall. This is subject to a number of rules.

As the owner of an apartment, you need permission from the joint owners’ association if you want to make energy-efficiency investments affecting the communal parts. If the basic deed of co-ownership states that the window frames are private and replacing the windows does not alter the shared exterior wall, you do not need permission to replace the windows.

We do note that you are required to comply with the provisions related to the general appearance of the building, covering such aspects as the permitted colours of the window frames and the window partitions required. You will need approval from the joint owners’ association if you want to depart from the permitted appearance or if the basic deed of co-ownership qualifies the windows as communal parts.

In principle, replacing the glass alone is never subject to permission.

Irrespective of whether you need approval or not, it is advisable to always inform the joint owners’ association of your plans. They might propose a joint approach to obtain more favourable prices.