Check first whether it is renovation or not!
You want to make your premises more sustainable? Logical! With rising energy prices and stricter climate regulations, this has almost become a matter of course. But beware: legally, it makes quite a difference how you name those activities. That difference can significantly affect your rights and obligations as a landlord.
Renovation or urgent work?
At renovation is all about improving tenants' living comfort. Think better insulation, new window frames or an energy-efficient boiler. In that case, you should make a reasonable proposal, and sometimes the tenant is even entitled to a moving allowance.
At urgent work involves necessary measures that cannot wait. For example, connecting to a heat network or installing solar panels to meet climate targets. The tenant must allow this, and you do not have to pay a fee.
Sustainability: luxury or necessity?
Until recently, judges usually saw preservation as renovation. But a recent ruling shows that it can be done differently. Preservation does not always have to be a luxury - sometimes it is simply a necessity. And so that makes a big difference legally.
In short: preservation is not always an improvement for the tenant, but often a step you as a landlord have to take. And the difference between renovation and urgent works can save you thousands of euros.
Tip: Are you going to renovate soon? Check carefully whether your plans are considered renovation or urgent works. This prevents hassle with tenants and unexpected costs.