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In which cases you do not have to pay for repairs in the apartment: rights of tenants and landlords in the Czech Republic

Here we will look at 2 cases when you do not have to pay for repairs to your apartment. The first case is when you are a tenant and the second case is when you own a new home.

1. Who pays for repairs in a rented apartment?

When you rent a home in the Czech Republic, it is important to understand that the law and the terms of the rental agreement clearly regulate the obligations of the parties. According to Ordinance No. 308/2015 Sb., tenants are obliged to cover the costs of routine maintenance and minor repairs, but with certain restrictions:

        • Minor repairs include repairing minor breakdowns or wear and tear during operation. The limit for such expenses is CZK 100 per square meter per year. For example, if the apartment is 50 m², the tenant is obliged to pay up to CZK 5,000 per year for repairs.
        • If the annual spending limit is exceeded, the landlord bears the cost of repairs.
        • Breakdowns caused by the tenant themselves are always paid for in full by the tenant.

Example: If the repair of the radiator cost CZK 2,000 and the replacement of window seals cost another CZK 3,000, the tenant's expenses exceeded the limit for a 50 m² dwelling. All subsequent work must be paid for by the apartment owner.

In addition, tenants must inform the landlord of planned works and coordinate them. If the landlord ignores his duties, the tenant can demand a rent reduction or terminate the agreement unilaterally (No. 89/2012 Sb.).

2. Who is responsible for repairs in the new apartment?

When you are the owner of a new home, the liability to repair defects is governed by the contract of sale and the provisions of the Civil Code (No. 89/2012 Sb.).

Warranty obligations:

        • A 2-year warranty for identified defects is provided by builders or sellers. This rule applies in most cases and requires that the defects are detected within the specified period.
        • 5 years for hidden defects (e.g. sewage problems or construction defects). The law stipulates that these defects must exist even before the property is transferred to the new owner and must be confirmed by a professional opinion.

It is important to remember: even if the contract states that the buyer was informed about the condition of the property, this does not relieve the seller of responsibility for hidden defects.

Exceptions (No. 89/2012 Sb.):

        • If we are talking about things with an expiration date (for example, old pumps), then such breakdowns are repaired by the buyer himself.
        • The land warranty is limited to 2 years.

To avoid problems, it is advisable to hire a professional for a technical inspection before buying a home. You should also document any deficiencies and notify the seller in a timely manner.

Conclusion

Knowing your rights as a tenant or property owner in the Czech Republic will help you avoid unnecessary costs. Careful review of the contract and compliance with legal requirements, such as Ordinance No. 308/2015 Sb. and the Civil Code (No. 89/2012 Sb.), will ensure that your interests are protected.

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