It is indispensable for every condominium owners' association (WEG): the maintenance reserve. It ensures that unexpected repairs and long-term renovations can be financed without suddenly placing a heavy burden on the owners. But many owners ask themselves: how does the reserve actually work, how much should it be and what can it be used for? We clarify the most important points.
What is the maintenance reserve?
The maintenance reserve is a financial reserve formed by the community of owners to cover the costs of future maintenance and repairs to the common property. This includes, for example:
Roof renovations
Facade work
Staircase renovations
Renewal of heating systems
Replacement of windows (if they are community property)
The aim: to distribute larger costs fairly across all owners and avoid sudden special levies.
What can the reserve be used for?
The maintenance reserve may only be used for measures on the common property, for example:
Repairs and refurbishments
Maintenance and modernization
Safety measures (e.g. fire protection, lighting)
Use for is not permitted:
Administrative costs
Costs on separate property (e.g. repairs in an individual apartment)
Repayment to individual owners
How high should the maintenance reserve be?
There is no legally prescribed amount, but the following recommendations have proven themselves in practice:
Old buildings (over 22 years old): approx. 1.50-2.50 € per m² living space/year
New buildings: approx. 0.80-1.00 € per m² living space/year
Example: For an 80 m² apartment in an old building, this would be around €120-200 per year.
Another model:
0.8 % to 1.0 % of the current building value per year as a guide.
Important: The exact height should be checked regularly and adjusted to the condition of the building. The property management company can provide expert advice here.
Advantages of a well-planned reserve
Avoidance of sudden special allocations
Maintaining and increasing the value of the property
Greater planning security for owners
Stronger position in WEG loan negotiations
How does property management provide support?
An experienced property management company like GWB Hausverwaltung ensures that:
the reserve is calculated and adjusted correctly,
the funds are managed securely and in compliance with the law,
a transparent overview of the reserves is included in the statements,
planned refurbishment measures are implemented in good time.
Conclusion: Reserves are both an obligation and protection
The maintenance reserve is not a "nice-to-have", but a must for every community of owners. It protects against financial bottlenecks, secures the value of the property and ensures good cooperation between the owners.
Contact us - GWB Hausverwaltung will be happy to advise you on the best way to plan your reserves and ensure the sustainable management of your property!
