Coronavirus – Find your property documents

The coronavirus is currently forcing many people to stay home. But what should you do all that time within your own four walls? Why not take the opportunity to check whether you have all the necessary real estate documents? Because whether it's an inheritance, divorce, or sale – once the situation arises, there's a frantic search for numerous documents.

Do you know where your property's energy performance certificate is located? It's mandatory when selling a property. You could even face a fine of up to €15,000 if it's not available by the viewing appointment. And are you sure it's still valid? Be wary of online energy performance certificates. There are some dubious offers. Experts therefore recommend having the energy performance certificate prepared by a certified professional.

You probably know where the land register extract is filed. After all, it's essential for selling real estate. The land register extract states who owns the property and whether the land is encumbered by a mortgage or other debts. If you don't have it, you can obtain it along with the land register extract.

The cadastral map is the official proof that a property exists. It includes: the location of the property and its boundaries, any buildings on the property, and the parcel and plot numbers, which serve to identify the property. The cadastral map is available from the land registry office.

In addition, there are many other important documents, such as building plans, calculations of living and usable space, a register of encumbrances, a list of all maintenance and modernization measures as well as operating costs, in the case of multi-family houses or condominiums declarations of division, minutes of the last owners' meetings and any rental or lease agreements as well as proof of residential and usage rights and several others.

Now is a good time to check that you have all the important documents together.

Do you need help organizing your documents? Would you like someone to take care of it for you? Contact us. We'd be happy to advise you.

Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice for any specific case. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your individual situation.

Photo: © jacqueline macou/Pixabay.com