Converting an apartment into an office: what you need to know before buying or selling

Change of use: authorization required in certain cases

In municipalities with a population of over 200,000, or in the departments of Hauts-de-Seine, Seine-Saint-Denis and Val-de-Marne, the conversion of an apartment into an office requires prior authorization for a change of use. The aim is to maintain a balance between the supply of housing and the need for business premises.

What types of premises are concerned?

The following are considered to be residential premises:

• All categories of accommodation, including annexes (retirement homes, service rooms, staff accommodation, etc.).
  
• Furnished rental accommodation, whether main residence or student accommodation.
  

Premises are deemed to be used for residential purposes if they were being used as such on January 1, 1970, unless proven otherwise by official documents such as :

• Built-up property register (models H1, H2, ME or R).
  
• Leases or title deeds.
  

On the other hand, for premises built or having undergone a change of use after 1970, the use declared at the time of the work or construction is deemed authentic.

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Compliance with habitability and construction standards

Converting an apartment into an office requires compliance with standards specific to the intended business activity. These standards include :

• Safety: presence of emergency exits, compliance with fire regulations.
  
• Hygiene: ventilation, natural lighting, access to suitable sanitary facilities.
  
• Establishments open to the public (ERP): if the office is intended to receive customers or partners, additional rules apply.
  

It is essential to anticipate these requirements to avoid unforeseen costs or refusal of authorization.

The crucial role of co-ownership regulations

Before taking any steps, it's essential to check the constraints associated with co-ownership. Here are the points to examine

1. Compatibility with the building's purpose: some co-ownership regulations prohibit commercial or professional activities.
   
2. Impact on co-ownership charges: a change of use may lead to a redistribution of charges (tantièmes) within the building.
   
3. Authorization from the co-owners' association: if work or a change of use is necessary, authorization from the co-owners' association is required before a regularization permit can be submitted.
   

Administrative procedures: a practical guide

To avoid disputes or administrative bottlenecks, here is a summary of the steps to follow:

1. Find out from the local council whether the property is located in a zone requiring authorization for a change of use.
   
2. Check the condominium bylaws and, if necessary, obtain theagreement of the co-owners.
   
3. Consult a professional (architect, notary or specialized lawyer) to validate the project's conformity.
   
4. Submit an official request for authorization to the relevant authorities.
   

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Converting an apartment into an office: a strategy worth evaluating

This type of conversion can represent an interesting opportunity, particularly in large conurbations where demand for workspace is high. However, it requires meticulous preparation and strict compliance with regulations. Whether you're an owner or an investor, it's advisable to surround yourself with professionals to maximize your chances of success.

By following these steps and anticipating potential obstacles, you can transform an apartment into an office with complete peace of mind.