Local governments will no longer be responsible for residential buildings 0 13

The public media portal lsm.lv reported on two important laws that will come into effect on January 1st, just before the New Year.

Starting from January 1, 2026, the principle of "debt follows the apartment" will be introduced in Latvia. After purchasing an apartment, the new owner will be required to pay off any debts associated with the apartment for utilities, building management expenses, contributions to the savings fund, as well as the right to legal use of the land.

Debts will transfer to the new owner for a period of no more than three years prior to the purchase of the apartment. The owner who failed to make the corresponding payments will be responsible for old debts.

From January 1, local governments will no longer be obligated to participate in the management of buildings owned by others. Residents of apartment buildings who have not yet done so must take over the maintenance of their building from the local government. Residents must decide whether to continue cooperating with the current manager or to establish a cooperative and manage the building themselves. If an agreement cannot be reached, the management contract will automatically be concluded with the previous manager.