What the SVJ is responsible for
An SVJ (owners' association) or housing cooperative is responsible for the common parts of the building: main and floor distribution boards, lighting of corridors and cellars, lightning protection and other equipment. The installation inside a flat is usually the unit owner's business (for cooperative flats it depends on the cooperative's statutes).
The regulations set no separate interval for apartment buildings. ČSN 33 1500 gives 5 years for brick residential buildings, recommends 2 years for older wiring in corridors and common areas, and wet areas (laundry rooms) have 1 year. The exact interval is recommended by the inspection technician according to the nature of the space.
What to inspect
- Common distribution boards and wiring, including the main house distribution board
- Lighting and sockets in common areas
- Lightning protection – full inspection every 4 years, visual check at least once a year
- Appliances and tools used by the manager or caretaker
- Wallboxes and charging points in a shared garage
- Photovoltaics on the roof, if the building has them
How to arrange it without a headache
- Make a list of the equipment in the building
- Order the inspections in one place – we arrange electrics, lightning protection and appliances together
- Hand the inspection reports to the committee and file them with the building documentation
- Put the dates of the next inspections in the committee's calendar
Why it pays off
After damage, the insurer often asks about inspections. An SVJ committee with its reports in order sleeps better. So do the residents.
Frequently asked questions
How often must an SVJ have an electrical inspection done?
In common areas usually once every 5 years, with older wiring and in wet areas more often. The nature of the space decides; ČSN 33 1500 and Annex 4 of Government Decree No. 190/2022 Coll. serve as guidance.
And how often a lightning protection inspection?
A full inspection every 4 years, for critical systems every 2 years. A visual check is done at least once a year.
Does the SVJ or the individual flat owner pay for the inspection?
The SVJ deals with the common parts, the flat owner with the installation inside the flat.
Is an inspection of wallboxes in a shared garage needed?
Yes. An initial inspection before commissioning (the installation must comply with ČSN 33 2000-7-722) and then regularly according to the environment and the manufacturer's instructions.