Can I install it in an apartment building? air source heat pump?
Air source heat pumps are an increasingly popular solution for cooling homes, but installing them in an apartment building raises many questions. This article examines what the Supreme Court decision says about the right to install an air source heat pump and what conditions may affect the installation.
Air conditioner be installed in an apartment building.
According to the Supreme Court's decision (KKO 2021:32), a housing company cannot prohibit a shareholder from installing an air conditioner (a cooling air source heat pump) on the balcony of their apartment without a justified reason. However, the housing company has the right to set conditions for the installation, for example to prevent noise pollution or protect structures. If the installation would cause unreasonable inconvenience to the company or other shareholders, the housing company can refuse permission.
Almost all housing companies today have instructions and requirements for installing an air source heat pump in an apartment building, so situations where it cannot be installed are very rare.
Shareholder's right to install an air-source heat pump
The Supreme Court ruled in 2021 (KKO 2021:32), which confirms that a housing company cannot prohibit a shareholder from installing an air source heat pump on their balcony without a justified reason. This decision clarifies shareholders' rights, especially in situations where the goal of the installation is to improve energy efficiency or increase comfort.
The housing company's right to set conditions
Although the owner has the right to install an air source heat pump, the housing company can set conditions for the installation. The purpose of these conditions is to minimize any potential adverse effects, such as:
- Prevention of noise pollution: The housing company may require that the air source heat pump meet certain noise level requirements.
- Protecting structures: Installation work must be carried out in a way that does not damage the structures of the house.
However, setting conditions is only reasonable if they are based on real adverse effects.
Almost all housing companies today have instructions and requirements for installing an air source heat pump in an apartment building, so situations where it cannot be installed are very rare.
When can a permit be refused?
A housing company can only refuse an installation permit if the air source heat pump causes unreasonable inconvenience to the company or other shareholders. Such inconveniences can include, for example, significant noise or aesthetic changes that impair the general appearance of the building. The definition of unreasonable inconvenience always depends on the individual case, and the justifications must be clear.
In our experience, 95% housing companies do not consider the resulting adverse effects to be an obstacle to installation.
Air source heat pump installation in practice
Before starting the installation, the owner must notify the housing company in writing and wait for permission. Good communication with the housing company and using an expert for the installation work can help avoid problems. In addition, the owner should ensure that the selected device meets all requirements, such as low noise levels and energy efficiency criteria.
In this article There is a short checklist of things to consider when installing an air source heat pump in an apartment building.
Summary
The Supreme Court ruling confirms the rights of shareholders to install air source heat pumps in apartment buildings, but the installation process requires cooperation with the housing company. The housing company can set conditions, but it is only possible to refuse permission if the disadvantages are unreasonable. Installing an air source heat pump in an apartment building is therefore possible, as long as the rules of the game are clear to all parties.
Top 3 cooling air heat pumps for apartment buildings
- Just cooling
- Meets the housing company's requirements
- Trusted brands
Mitsubishi Electric HR
Installed in an apartment building from €1,720
- 2.5 and 3.5 kW power classes
- 20 - 120 m2
- WiFi as standard
- PM 2.5 air purifier as standard
- Trusted brand
Panasonic TZ
Installed in an apartment building from €1,700
- 2.5, 3.5 and 4.2 kW power classes
- 20 - 150 m2
- WiFi as standard
- PM 2.5 air purifier as standard
- Excellent airflow
Toshiba Seiya+
Installed in an apartment building from €1,820
- 10, 13 and 16+ power classes
- 20 - 150 m2
- WiFi optional
- PM 2.5 air purifier as standard
- Quiet voice
