Illegal apartment remodelling: what is prohibited and what consequences await owners?

Redesigning an apartment seems like an easy way to make your home more comfortable, but unauthorised changes can lead to serious problems. Owners risk not only fines, but also additional costs to restore the property to its previous condition. Learn more about prohibited types of redesign, possible fines, and ways to protect your apartment

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In Ukraine, the topic of housing redevelopment has long been a subject of debate. Many owners want to make their apartments more comfortable or spacious, but not everyone knows that unauthorised changes without proper approval can have serious financial consequences.

According to Finance.ua, violations of the rules are subject to administrative liability and, in some cases, the obligation to restore the property to its previous condition.

We will discuss the prohibitions, fines, and procedures in more detail below.

What kind of apartment remodelling is considered dangerous?

Certain changes in apartment layout can create risks for both the owner and their neighbours. The following are prohibited:

– dismantling load-bearing walls and floors;

– combining rooms with a balcony or loggia by demolishing external walls;

– moving heating radiators to the balcony;

– moving or expanding bathrooms at the expense of living rooms;

– unauthorised extensions on the first floors without permits.

Such changes can compromise the integrity of the building, damage utilities or create emergency situations.

How much will you have to pay for illegal apartment remodelling?

The amount of fines is regulated by the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offences. For illegal redevelopment, the owner may be fined between 1,700 and 4,250 UAH. If the violations are repeated or attempts are made to conceal the fact, the amount increases to 8,500 UAH and even up to 25,500 UAH in certain cases.

In addition to the financial penalty, the owner will be required to restore the dwelling to its original condition at their own expense. This means that attempts to save money on approvals often result in even greater expenses.

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Who monitors compliance with the rules for apartment remodelling in Ukraine?

Violations can be detected by both state inspectors and local government representatives. Complaints from neighbours are often the basis for an inspection. If the redevelopment involves load-bearing structures or changes the purpose of the premises, the owner must have a project prepared by a certified architect, obtain the consent of the co-owners, submit documents through the Administrative Services Centre or ‘Diyu’ and register a new technical passport after completion of the work.

Why is legalising a redevelopment more advantageous than illegal work?

Although the official procedure takes at least a month and requires additional costs, it protects the owner from fines, obligations to restore the property, and possible legal disputes with neighbours. Legalising a redevelopment is a guarantee of security and confidence that the flat will remain within the legal framework.

Why should you consider additional protection when remodelling your flat?

Even if you follow all the rules, there is always a risk of unforeseen situations — fires, floods or damage to property.

In such cases, apartment insurance from the Visit Ukraine portal will help. The policy covers losses up to UAH 2,000,000, including compensation for damage to neighbours and even protection against military risks. All you need to apply is your passport and TIN, and you can insure both your own home and a rented one.

Take care of the safety of your home today — get reliable apartment insurance on the Visit Ukraine portal!

Reminder! Property insurance is an effective and inexpensive tool for protecting your home. Why you should insure your apartment or house right now and what benefits it gives you — we explain at the link.

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