With the arrival of the summer season, the possibility of installing an air conditioner in your home becomes an almost essential necessity to guarantee adequate living comfort.
But is it always possible to install an air conditioner in a condominium without problems? And what are the regulations that regulate this installation so as not to damage the neighborhood or urban aesthetics?
Although the installation of air conditioning devices is generally recognized as a citizen's right, it must comply with specific rules to avoid conflicts and maintain architectural harmony.
In the condominium reality, for example, the installation of an air conditioner does not require the approval of the assemblybut must still comply with certain regulations that safeguard both aesthetics and public peace.
Rules and regulations for the installation of air conditioners
Before proceeding with the installation of an air conditioner in a condominium, it is essential to know and comply with specific regulations that regulate its installation. These regulations are essential to ensure that any intervention is compliant and does not disturb neighbors or damage the image of the building.
- UNI 10339:1995 regulation
This specific regulation regulates the “Aeraulic systems for well-being purposes“, outlining general information, classification and requirements. It is crucial that models and outdoor units comply with this regulation to ensure a regulated and safe placing on the market. - Size and positioning
Outdoor units must be installed so as not to cause visual or acoustic disturbance to neighbors. It is important to consider the optimal positioning that avoids obstructing views or creating excessive noise. - Respect for architectural decorum
Particularly relevant for historic buildings or those located in historic centres, the installation must not compromise the aesthetics of the building. - Impacts on vision
The installation must not affect the view of other condominiums, carefully positioning drain pipes and motors.
These rules not only guarantee respect for the neighborhood and the visual integrity of the building, but also protect condominiums from any legal disputes that may arise from inadequate installations.
Responsibilities and rights of the condominium assembly
When an air conditioner is installed in such a way does not comply with regulations, the condominium assembly can intervene with significant decisions. Article 1122 of the Civil Code plays a fundamental role in this context, clearly establishing the responsibilities of the condominiums and the powers of the assembly.
Article 1122
Works on parts of property or individual useIn the real estate unit owned by him or in the parts normally intended for common use, which have been assigned exclusive ownership or intended for individual use, the condominium owner cannot carry out works that cause damage to the common parts or cause prejudice to the stability, safety or architectural decorum of the building.
In any case, prior notice is given to the administrator who reports it to the assembly.
This article states that condominiums cannot carry out works in the parts of individual or common property that cause damage to the common parts or which compromise the stability, safety or architectural decoration of the building.
Furthermore, it is mandatory for the condominium owner to inform the administrator of these works, who will then have to report to the assembly.
Forced removal
If the installation of the air conditioner does not comply with the instructions provided, the assembly is authorized to order the removal of the equipment and to request compensation for any damage caused.
Compliance with these provisions not only avoids sanctions or the need for expensive removals, but also ensures a harmonious condominium environment, where everyone's rights are respected and protected.
Exceptions and alternative solutions in the installation of air conditioners
Despite the general right to install an air conditioner, there are specific situations in which this may be limited or denied, especially in architecturally sensitive contexts such as historic centers or listed buildings.
Let's see what these cases are.
The municipal regulation
In some cases, municipal regulations may impose specific restrictions, such as a ban on installing outdoor units on facades visible from the street or the obligation to use colors that harmonize with the aesthetics of the building.
These regulations are often more stringent in areas of particular historical or artistic value.
The condominium regulations
The installation ban can also emerge from internal regulations of the condominium. To be effective, this regulation must be approved unanimously and duly registered or mentioned in the sales contracts.
This ensures that future owners or tenants are also bound by these provisions.
Installation solutions and alternatives
Addressing the challenges of installing an air conditioner in a condominium requires creativity and consideration of existing regulations, but there are several effective solutions to overcome these difficulties.
One of the most practical alternatives is to use monobloc air conditioners, which do not require an external unit. These systems integrate all the functions in a single internal unit and require only small holes for air expulsion, minimizing the visual and architectural impact on the building facades.
Another considerable option is the installation of outdoor units in strategic and less visible positions, such as terraces not accessible to the public or parts of the roof that do not alter the visual line of the building. This approach can help maintain exterior aesthetics and reduce noise for neighbors.
Furthermore, you can opt for more advanced air conditioning technologies that offer greater energy efficiency and lower noise emissions. These modern systems can be an acceptable compromise for the most demanding condominium assemblies, guaranteeing compliance with the rules of coexistence and the comfort of the inhabitants.
Consulting an expert in HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems can provide further information on how to implement these solutions effectively, ensuring that the installation complies with all local and condominium regulations.
