Old House and Homeowners’ Committee: Legal Risks (729)
When selling an apartment in an old building, it is important to consider not only the property itself but also the rules and decisions of the homeowners’ committee (Vaad HaBayit).
Misunderstanding these aspects can create legal risks for the seller.
Role of the Homeowners’ Committee
The committee manages the building’s common areas and is responsible for:
- collecting communal fees;
- repairs and maintenance of shared spaces;
- enforcing rules for using common areas;
- approving major decisions (capital repairs, renovations, insurance).
Committee decisions can directly or indirectly affect the apartment sale.
Main Legal Risks for the Seller
- Unpaid debts in the building
If there are outstanding communal fees or repair costs, the new owner may claim compensation. - Illegal committee decisions
Examples include excessive fees or unlawful restrictions on using shared areas. - Lack of meeting protocols
Without official documentation, it is difficult to prove compliance during a dispute. - Insufficient review of house rules
Rules may restrict renovations, remodeling, or apartment usage.
How to Minimize Risks
- Check for any debts or obligations related to the building.
- Review committee rules and decisions.
- Obtain confirmation of account balances and completed works.
- If necessary, involve a lawyer or Unehasim specialists for verification.
Tips from Unehasim
- Gather all documents related to the homeowners’ committee before selling.
- Clarify any outstanding debts or unpaid obligations.
- Agree on who is responsible for payments before and after the sale.
- Properly checking these details builds buyer trust and speeds up the transaction.
Contact Unehasim Specialists
If you are selling an apartment in an old building in Haifa, Unehasim can help:
- identify legal risks related to the homeowners’ committee;
- prepare all documents regarding fees and committee decisions;
- manage the transaction to minimize financial and legal risks.
Understanding the committee’s influence is key to a safe sale of an old apartment.
