Buying And Living in a Multi-Unit Development Property in Ireland
5. House Rules
5.1 Introduction
Most management companies draw up a set of rules known as house rules, which typically set out standards and rules for communal living.
The purpose of the house rules is to ensure that the common areas are maintained to a good standard and that the scope for conflicts and disputes between neighbours is reduced.
Your solicitor should advise you on the terms and conditions of house rules. When you sign the lease it becomes a legal requirement that you adhere to the house rules.
It is important therefore that you know these rules and if you are a landlord you should ensure that your tenants are familiar with them by incorporating the rules as part of the tenancy agreement.
5.2 What are house rules?
Examples of house rules may include restrictions on noise levels, limits on alterations to the external appearance of units, a ban on the keeping of pets, restrictions on hanging laundry from balconies, rules on refuse disposal, car parking etc.
The exact terms and conditions of the house rules will generally be set out as part of the lease agreement.
These are generally presented as a standard set of 15-20 specific rules, but the precise terms and conditions of the rules may vary.
House rules typically appear as part of the lease in the following manner:
- All stereo, radio and TV appliances must be kept at a volume which does not interfere with your neighbours' quiet enjoyment of their homes. No noise should be audible outside apartments between 9.00pm and 9.00am;
- It is not permitted to hang or expose clothes/laundry or any other articles inside or outside their apartment so as to be visible from outside the apartment. Under no circumstances should washing/laundry be hung out to dry on balconies;
- The managing agent must be provided with phone numbers where residents can be contacted during the day or at night. Where apartments are let to tenants it is the apartment owner's obligation to ensure that the agent has the contact names, address and phone numbers of the tenants;
- Vehicles should be parked in the car park in such a way so as not to obstruct access to the apartment block, exits etc.
5.3 House Rules Disputes
The management company is ultimately responsible for setting and enforcing the house rules.
The procedures and responsibility for dealing with complaints in relation to the house rules should be clearly outlined and communicated to all owners and residents by the company directors.
It is important that you know who is responsible for ensuring that the rules are obeyed and what should be done in the event that disputes in relation to the house rules arise. In some instances, there may be limited legal means by which disputes might be resolved.
Good communication, goodwill and the cooperation of all residents, be they owners or tenants are required.
Depending on the lease and the company's articles of association, the rules may be changed, added to, or repealed by the directors or by a vote at the company's annual general meeting.