Can I install sun shading in my apartment without permission? These are the rules within a condominium association.

On hot summer days, sun protection can help make indoor temperatures more comfortable. But when you live in an apartment, the question arises: can you simply install sun shading on your apartment?

The answer is: usually not without prior explicit approval from the general assembly, and certainly not without first checking the rules that apply within the relevant condominium. Because sun shading is often visible from the outside of the building, its installation can affect the appearance of the façade and therefore the common areas.

In this article, you will learn what you need to know before installing screens, roller shutters, or awnings.

Is sun shading a private or common matter?

In a detached house, you can freely decide on façade modifications. In an apartment building, the situation is different.

The façade is part of the common areas of the condominium. Therefore, changes to the appearance of the building cannot always be made individually.

Even when the sun shading only benefits your apartment, its installation impacts:

• the uniform appearance of the building
• the architectural look
• the building envelope or façade cladding
• future maintenance and renovation works

That is why specific rules often apply.

First check the statutes and internal regulations

Before requesting quotes or starting work, you should first consult:

• the co-ownership regulations
• the internal rules of the building

These may contain provisions regarding:

• changes to the common façade
• allowed types of sun shading
• colour and material choices
• technical requirements
• whether an architect must be involved
• the approval procedure

In many condominiums, clear guidelines have already been approved by the co-owners and included in the internal rules, which allows requests to be processed more quickly.

Do you need approval from the condominium association (ACP)?

In most cases, yes.

Since installing sun shading affects the appearance of the façade, it must—if no specific rules exist in the regulations—be decided by the Association of Co-Owners (ACP). Any works impacting common parts or the building’s appearance must be submitted to the general meeting.

If you want to submit a request, it is best to do so in advance so that it can be placed on the agenda of the next general meeting. This allows all co-owners to vote on the proposal.

For changes to common parts or the architectural appearance of the building, a two-thirds majority is required at a legally constituted general meeting. It is therefore advisable to prepare your file carefully and coordinate with the property manager (syndic), so it can be included on time and all co-owners have sufficient information to decide.

Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs?

Since you are carrying out private works, even though they are attached to a common façade:

• purchase and installation costs are borne by the applicant
• maintenance and repairs are borne by the applicant
• any damage to the façade is the responsibility of the applicant
• the sun shading may need to be temporarily removed at the owner’s expense if façade works require it

Clear agreements help prevent later disputes.

Make clear agreements for the future

When multiple co-owners are interested in sun shading, it is useful to establish clear rules within the condominium. The general meeting can approve a specific type, colour, material, or installation method to preserve the uniform appearance of the building.

These agreements are preferably included in the internal rules. This ensures that current and future owners know exactly what is allowed.

The role of the property manager (syndic)

A professional property manager helps co-owners follow the correct procedures. The syndic checks the applicable rules, advises on the procedure, and ensures the request is properly placed on the agenda of the general meeting if required.

Conclusion

If you want to install sun shading in your apartment, do not proceed immediately. First check the statutes, the co-ownership regulations, and the internal rules, and consult the property manager about the applicable procedure.

By following the correct steps, you avoid conflicts, unexpected costs, and potential legal disputes. You also help preserve the appearance and value of the building.

FAQ: sun shading in an apartment

Can I install sun shading without ACP approval?
It depends on the building rules. Because it affects the exterior, prior approval from the general meeting is usually required.

Can the ACP refuse my request?
Yes. If the installation does not comply with the rules or disrupts the building’s uniform appearance, the ACP may refuse permission. In some cases, the decision can be challenged before a justice of the peace.

What happens if I install it without permission?
This may lead to disputes within the condominium and, in some cases, an obligation to remove the installation and restore the façade to its original condition.