Renovating an apartment in Geneva is an exciting project, but it is often more complex than it seems. Between the constraints of co-ownership (PPE), cantonal administrative requirements, and technical standards, the owner must navigate carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Understanding PPE rules in Geneva
Before knocking down a wall or modifying your kitchen, the first step is to consult the co-ownership regulations. In Geneva, your apartment is never completely isolated.
If your work affects common areas, the exterior appearance of the building, or the load-bearing structure, the approval of the general meeting of co-owners is essential :
- Structural changes: any impact on load-bearing walls requires formal authorization.
- Collective equipment: replacing heating systems or modifying water networks can impact the entire building.
- Aesthetics: changing windows or blinds must often respect a uniformity imposed by the regulations.
Administrative permits: do not underestimate the building permit
In Geneva, contrary to popular belief, many "interior" works trigger a building permit application. As soon as you touch the networks or modify the layout of the rooms, the risk is real.
A building permit in Geneva is not handled at the end, but at the very beginning of the project. It is crucial to prepare a solid file including detailed plans and, if necessary, energy certificates.
The processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the file and the requirements of the building inspection.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Lack of anticipation is the main enemy of the project owner. Here are some points to watch out for :
- Budget: always include a safety margin of 10 to 15% for unforeseen events, which are particularly common in older buildings.
- Deadlines: administrative procedures and the availability of certified craftsmen can slow down your schedule.
- Compliance: ensure that your work complies with the energy law and current insulation standards.
How KERLINE SA supports you
As an independent project management assistant (AMO), KERLINE SA represents your interests exclusively. We help you audit your project before starting work, verify technical and administrative feasibility, and coordinate the various stakeholders.
Our role is to secure your investment by anticipating risks related to co-ownership and Geneva regulations, thus guaranteeing you a serene and compliant renovation.