The Challenges of Managing Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
During a discussion with political analyst Yuriy Romanenko, real estate management expert Olga Rublova highlighted a critical issue in the upkeep of apartment buildings. She pointed out that the core problem is residents' lack of a sense of responsibility for shared property, which fuels conflicts and complicates decision-making. According to Rublova, most residents believe their ownership ends at their apartment door, viewing everything else as 'state-owned,' 'communal,' or essentially belonging to no one.
This mindset is common in many post-Soviet housing systems, where the transition from state to private ownership remains psychologically incomplete. The expert stressed that typically, only 10-15% of residents bear the main burden of maintaining the building. These individuals are actively involved in management, attend meetings, and review budgets. However, other residents often just benefit from this work while simultaneously voicing criticism.
"These people carry everything on their shoulders. The hardest part is making a legally binding decision."
Olga Rublova
She also focused on the difficulties residents face when trying to pass legitimate resolutions. Due to the mass exodus of owners abroad, gathering the required number of votes (a quorum) has become technically impossible in many cases. Olga Rublova explained:
"The law requires a specific number of votes for capital expenditures or changes to the building's charter. And that's where the 'quest' begins."
Olga Rublova
Rublova further emphasized the importance of constantly informing residents that management fees are not a 'tribute' but an investment in preserving the value of their assets. She noted: "You need to conduct constant 'educational work.' Because if the entrance is in a terrible state, you won't sell your apartment at market price."
Among the problems arising from this lack of responsibility, the expert highlighted:
- conflicts between residents on different floors;
- refusal to fund critical repairs if the issue does not directly affect their own apartment.
This situation underscores the need for changes in approaches to managing multi-unit buildings.
The discussion with Olga Rublova highlights the crucial importance of collective responsibility among apartment residents for ensuring proper building maintenance. In conditions where a significant number of owners may be abroad, there is a pressing need for new management mechanisms to simplify communication and decision-making. Changing residents' attitudes toward shared expenses could significantly impact the quality of life in such buildings and their overall infrastructure.