Lift in co-ownership: charges and allocation
Lift in co-ownership: charges and allocation
Types of lift-related charges
Lift charges in a co-ownership fall into two distinct categories, with different allocation rules.
Current charges (operation)
| Charge | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Lift electricity | Monthly |
| Maintenance contract | Annual |
| Minor repairs | Ad hoc |
| Periodic inspection (SECT) | Annual |
| Cabin cleaning | Monthly |
Exceptional charges (investment)
| Charge | Nature |
|---|---|
| Lift replacement | Major works |
| Modernisation | GA decision |
| Compliance upgrade | Legal obligation |
| Motor repair | Major repair |
In Belgium, periodic inspection by a SECT (external technical control service) is mandatory. For the general framework, see our guide on co-ownership and renting.
Allocation among co-owners
By shares
The most common method: each co-owner pays according to their thousandths. An 80 m2 apartment pays more than a 30 m2 studio, regardless of floor.
By floor (specific allocation key)
Some regulations provide for allocation by floor:
| Floor | Typical coefficient |
|---|---|
| Ground floor | 0 or 0.5 |
| 1st floor | 1 |
| 2nd floor | 1.5 |
| 3rd floor | 2 |
| 4th floor | 2.5 |
Ground floor exemption
The co-ownership regulations may exempt ground floor units from lift charges. This exemption must be explicit. In the absence of a clause, the ground floor participates according to its shares.
Changing the allocation key for lift charges requires a qualified majority vote (4/5) at the general assembly, unless the original regulations already provide for a specific key.
What the tenant pays
Recoverable charges
The landlord may invoice the tenant for current lift charges:
- Electricity
- Current maintenance contract
- Minor repairs (bulbs, buttons, door seals)
- Share of cleaning costs
Non-recoverable charges
| Charge | Borne by |
|---|---|
| Lift replacement | Landlord |
| Modernisation | Landlord |
| Compliance upgrade | Landlord |
| Major repair (motor, cables) | Landlord |
| Reserve fund share | Landlord |
For details on recoverable co-ownership charges, see our dedicated guide.
In practice
For the landlord
- Check the lift charges allocation key in the regulations
- Clearly distinguish current and exceptional charges in the statement
- Include lift charge provisions in the lease
- Keep supporting documents for the annual statement
For the tenant
- Request a breakdown of lift charges in the provisions
- Verify that major repairs are not charged to you
- Challenge any statement including non-recoverable charges
Manage your charges statements with a rental management software for precise tracking. See also our guide on the reserve fund in co-ownership.