In the event of water damage, the cause should first be clarified. Dirt particles indicate that the water is coming from outside. If clear water is leaking, it may be a leak or condensation water, for example. If foam, paper residue and fibrous material can be found in the water, it is likely to be dirty water. The Association of Private Builders VPB advises: "In...

Only a quarter of people find the current CO2 pricing in the transport and heating sector acceptable. In addition, around three quarters of respondents feel poorly informed or not informed at all about CO2 pricing. This is the result of a study by the Institute for Macroeconomics and Business Cycle Research (IMK) of the Hans Böckler Foundation. The authors of the study therefore believe that better information...

Building owners should ensure the supply of electricity and water before starting construction work on their property. If there are no connections on the property itself, hydrants and electricity boxes in the vicinity can normally be used for this purpose. However, if builders wish to do so, they must obtain permits from the local authority and the local utility company.

Since 2023, it has been mandatory for landlords to contribute to the CO2 costs of heating and hot water for their rented properties. This legal innovation aims to encourage owners to invest in energy-saving measures. The Carbon Dioxide Cost Allocation Act (CO2KostAufG) takes into account the fact that the characteristics of the heating systems and the...

The Federal Court of Justice (BGH) recently clarified the concept of defects when purchasing apartments in old buildings in a decision (V ZR 79/23). It stated that apartments must be dry and habitable in order to be considered free of defects. This even applies to basement apartments in old buildings near a river. In the present case, basement apartments were sold that had damp exterior walls...

Rainwater harvesting can help save drinking water as it can be used for watering gardens, flushing toilets or washing clothes. This reduces dependence on municipal water supply systems and promotes a more sustainable use of water resources. Households and municipalities that use rainwater therefore not only benefit from...

According to Bulwiengesa's five percent study, the German real estate market will become increasingly attractive to investors in 2024. Yields are expected to be higher again than in previous years, particularly in the area of existing apartments. This reflects a trend reversal. The study also emphasizes that the increase in the internal rate of return (IRR) will increase the attractiveness of residential real estate as a...

When discovering unclear moisture damage or mold growth, it is crucial not to start any hasty repairs. These can often destroy evidence that is important for clarifying responsibilities. The Association of Private Building Owners (VPB) points this out. Instead, Marc Ellinger, head of the VPB's regional office in Freiburg-Südbaden, advises calmness and careful documentation of the...

Builders or owners who want to convert their loft should find out the necessary budget and all the important steps in advance. This is because, in some federal states, planning permission is required if you want to do this. This is the case, for example, if the statics of the house are affected by the addition of a balcony or the external appearance of the house...

12.4 million families in Germany live in owner-occupied property. This means that 57% of families live in their own property. Couples with children are particularly likely to live within their own four walls (62%). This is according to surveys conducted by the census on May 15, 2022. In addition to couples with and without children, families also include single parents with children. Where especially...