If you live in or own an apartment complex in Flanders, you may be wondering whether an asbestos certificate (“asbestattest”) is required for the common areas of the building. With asbestos regulations becoming increasingly stringent, it is essential to understand your responsibilities as a co-owner or syndicate member. In this article, we’ll clarify when and why an asbestos certificate is necessary for shared spaces in an apartment complex and how you can ensure compliance with the law.
What Are Common Areas in an Apartment Complex?
Common areas, also known as “gemeenschappelijke delen“ in Dutch, refer to spaces within an apartment complex that are shared by all residents or co-owners. These typically include:
- Hallways and staircases
- Elevators
- Basements or storage rooms
- Roofs and facades
- Parking garages
- Shared utility rooms or technical spaces
Because these areas are accessible to all residents, any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present could pose a risk to a larger group of people. This makes asbestos identification and management in common areas a critical concern.
Is an Asbestos Certificate Required for Common Areas?
Yes, an asbestos certificate is required for the common areas of apartment complexes built before 2001. The requirement applies under the following circumstances:
Change of Ownership: If an individual apartment unit or the entire building is being sold, an asbestos certificate must cover both private and common areas. 2. Legal Obligations for Co-owners: From January 1, 2025, co-owners (through their property management syndicate) must ensure that a valid asbestos certificate is available for the common areas of all buildings constructed before 2001.
This regulation is part of a broader effort to create a complete inventory of asbestos in Flanders by 2032, ensuring that potential risks are identified and mitigated.
Who Is Responsible for Obtaining the Asbestos Certificate?
For common areas, the responsibility typically falls on the property management syndicate or the homeowners’ association (“Vereniging van Mede-eigenaars” or VME). Here’s what they need to do:
- Hire a Certified Inspector: The syndicate must engage a certified asbestos expert (asbestdeskundige) to inspect the common areas and issue a valid asbestos certificate. 2. Share the Results: Once the certificate is obtained, it should be made available to all co-owners and potential buyers during property transactions.
- Manage Identified Asbestos: If asbestos is found, the syndicate must take steps to manage or safely remove it, following recommendations provided in the certificate.
What Does the Inspection Involve?
During the inspection of common areas, the asbestos expert will:
- Identify and assess any materials that may contain asbestos.
- Determine the condition of the asbestos-containing materials (e.g., whether they are intact or damaged).
- Provide recommendations for managing or removing the asbestos, if necessary.
The findings will be documented in the asbestos certificate, which serves as a legal record of the building’s asbestos status.
Why Is the Asbestos Certificate Important?
An asbestos certificate for common areas is crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: Identifying and managing asbestos helps protect the health of residents and visitors by reducing exposure to harmful fibers.
- Transparency: The certificate provides essential information to current and potential property owners, fostering trust and informed decision-making.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring that your building complies with asbestos regulations helps avoid fines and legal disputes.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of obtaining an asbestos certificate for common areas depends on factors such as the size and complexity of the building. On average, you can expect to pay between €500 and €1,000 for larger properties. Costs may vary further if additional laboratory testing is required.
Conclusion
If your apartment complex was built before 2001, an asbestos certificate is mandatory for the common areas, especially when ownership changes or as part of ongoing legal obligations. The responsibility for obtaining the certificate lies with the property management syndicate or homeowners’ association. By addressing asbestos risks proactively, you can ensure the safety and compliance of your building.
Need help finding a certified asbestos expert? Visit asbestattestoffertes to request quotes and connect with professionals who can guide you through the process efficiently. Safeguard your apartment complex and its residents by taking the necessary steps today!
