Russia tightens rules on housing maintenance fees with owner consent requirement
Russia’s Ministry of Construction has issued new guidelines on housing maintenance fees. The rules clarify that management companies cannot increase charges or apply municipal rates without property owners’ consent. All decisions must now go through a formal vote at a general meeting of owners. The ministry has stressed that only a general meeting of property owners can approve changes to maintenance fees. This includes decisions on the scope of works, service costs, and the final amount charged. Management companies must also provide full transparency before any vote takes place.
At least 30 days before the meeting, companies must share the proposed budget, detailed cost calculations, and a clear justification for the fee. Without this information, owners cannot make an informed decision. The ministry has also confirmed that even if a municipality sets its own fee, it cannot be enforced unless owners explicitly agree in their management contract. Once approved, the maintenance fee remains fixed for a minimum of one year. Any adjustments to services, works, or charges after that period will again require a vote by the owners.
The new rules prevent management companies from unilaterally raising fees or imposing municipal rates. Owners now have stronger control over maintenance costs through mandatory meetings and detailed financial disclosures. The changes aim to ensure fairness and transparency in housing management decisions.
