Everything You Need to Know About Apartment Renovation in Latvia

To make changes legally, you must follow specific regulations. Here’s how to carry out a simplified renovation, what documents are required, and why a construction specialist is essential.

Simplified Renovation vs. Reconstruction: How to Tell the Difference

In Latvia, renovations are divided into two categories:

1. Simplified Renovation:

   • No changes to load-bearing walls, façades, or the building’s total area.

   • Examples: Removing non-load-bearing partitions, combining rooms.

2. Reconstruction:

   • Involves altering load-bearing structures, changing the building’s purpose, or modifying its total area.

Example: Merging a toilet with a bathroom or combining a kitchen with an adjoining room without demolishing load-bearing walls qualifies as a simplified renovation.

Required Documents
To proceed legally, submit:

1. Construction Notice (via the Building Information System – BIS).

2. Floor Plan with Proposed Changes: Must include room heights and be prepared/approved by a certified construction specialist.

3. Civil Liability Insurance (approx. €20).

Important: Only certified architects or construction specialists can prepare these documents. You cannot do this yourself!

Role of a Construction Specialist and Costs
To submit documents to BIS, you need:

1. A signed authorization for the specialist.

2. A project plan (cost: €250–€350).

3. Submission of the construction notice (reviewed by authorities within 10 days).

What to Do After Renovation? Inventory Update!
After completing the work:

1. Request a New Inventory from the State Land Service (cost: €2–€3 per m²).

2. Submit documents to BIS to approve the apartment for use.

Warning: Without an updated inventory, changes may be deemed illegal!

When Is Additional Approval Required?

• If the apartment has multiple owners (undivided ownership).

• If work affects shared spaces (e.g., electrical wiring in risers).

• Example: Creating a doorway in a load-bearing wall requires a building permit and a detailed project.

Common Mistakes

• Starting work without submitting a BIS notice.

• Skipping the post-renovation inventory.

• Damaging load-bearing walls due to unclear structural knowledge.

Remember: Even minor renovations can lead to fines if regulations are ignored.

Key Takeaways
Simplified renovations are straightforward if you follow the law and work with certified professionals. Key steps:

1. Hire a trusted construction specialist.

2. Prepare BIS documents.

3. Secure insurance and update the inventory.

By complying with these rules, you avoid legal risks and ensure your renovation is safe and lawful.