Collective ventilation in apartments: what every co-owner should know
Ventilation is essential in every apartment, not just for comfort, but also for your health and the preservation of the building. More and more apartment buildings are opting for collective ventilation systems. But what does that actually mean? And what are the implications for you as a co-owner?
In this article, you'll discover how collective ventilation works, its benefits and key considerations, who is responsible for maintenance, and how an experienced property manager like Syncura keeps everything running smoothly.
Why ventilation matters
New-build apartments are extremely well insulated these days. That’s great for your energy bill, but less ideal for air circulation. Moisture, CO₂ and odours can accumulate without proper ventilation, leading to mould, allergies, or a stale indoor atmosphere.
A well-functioning ventilation system extracts polluted air and brings in fresh air. In many buildings, this is done through a shared system for multiple units: collective ventilation.
What is collective ventilation?
In a collective system, several apartments are connected to a single central ventilation unit. This system supplies fresh air and extracts stale air from each unit. Most commonly, it involves a type D system with heat recovery, but other configurations exist depending on the building’s setup.
The unit is connected to each apartment via a network of ducts. Controls are typically local, but the installation itself is shared by the entire building.
The benefits
Lower installation cost per unit: Since one unit serves multiple apartments, the investment is shared among all co-owners, making it more cost-effective than individual systems.
Better performance: Central systems are usually professionally monitored and adjusted, ensuring stable operation and fewer defects.
Less noise in the apartment: The unit is installed outside the living spaces, on the roof or in a utility room, so no annoying hum indoors.
Heat recovery options: Some systems recover heat from outgoing air, saving energy and reducing heating bills.
A well-tuned ventilation system improves living comfort and helps prevent moisture problems. Regular maintenance remains crucial.
Key considerations for co-owners
Despite its efficiency, a collective system requires proper coordination within the co-ownership. Without clear agreements, misunderstandings or frustration can arise.
Important points:
No individual changes without approval: Residents may not alter or block the system in their apartment without approval from the co-ownership, as this affects the whole building.
Maintenance is essential: Poor upkeep of the central unit impacts all units, resulting in reduced air quality or technical issues.
Shared costs: All costs for cleaning, repairs or replacement are divided according to the co-ownership agreement.
Although the co-ownership rules define responsibilities, the property manager handles the day-to-day coordination, from maintenance contracts to resolving malfunctions and informing residents. At Syncura, this is part of our core service.
Who handles the maintenance?
As it’s a shared system, maintenance falls under the co-ownership's responsibility. The property manager ensures:
A proper maintenance contract is in place
Filters are replaced on time
Regular inspections are carried out
Repairs are correctly managed
Residents are informed about their role (e.g. adjusting vents)
Syncura takes technical follow-up seriously. We work with reliable partners and ensure transparent communication with all owners and residents.
Cost allocation
All expenses for collective ventilation, installation, upkeep, or repair are split based on each owner’s share in the co-ownership. The division is set in the co-ownership regulations, and it’s the property manager who ensures the correct settlement.
Note: If someone misuses the system (e.g. blocks vents), they can be held personally liable for damages.
What if the system doesn’t work properly?
Experiencing issues like mould, moisture or bad smells? Report this to the property manager immediately. They’ll investigate and handle the follow-up from the first inspection to necessary repairs.
At Syncura, we guarantee transparent follow-up so that every issue is resolved quickly and correctly.
In short: a shared responsibility
Collective ventilation offers comfort, energy efficiency and performance, provided it’s well managed. That means clear agreements, proactive maintenance and a property manager who takes technical follow-up seriously.
Looking for a property manager who does more than paperwork? Syncura manages over 2,000 buildings across Flanders and ensures every installation, administrative or technical is handled with care.
