Fixed elements in terrace: link beauty with proper space maintenance
Table of contents:
1. Fixed constructive elements concept. Is it convenient to communicate to the co-owners of the property the fixed elements installation? Do I also have to do it when these are located on the private terrace?
2. Fixed elements that everybody longs for
2.1. Air conditioning
2.2. Wooden decking
2.3. Porches, gazebos or awnings
2.4. Pots and planters
2.5. White grass and artificial turf
2.6. Luminaires, satellite dishes, telephone antennas and solar panels 2.7.
2.7. The particular case of flags
3. Let's talk about solutions!
4. Epilogue: the remote fire hazard of fixed elements
1. The concept of fixed constructive elements: Should the co-owners of the property be informed of the installation of fixed elements? Should this also be done when they are located on the private terrace?
The constructive fixed elements are defined as: 'constructive elements that once installed in a certain space cannot be moved easily'.
Turn your terrace into a dream is an exciting challenge, but first of all, we must ask ourselves a double question:
a) Is it convenient to communicate to the co-owners of the property the installation of fixed elements to the privative terrace?
Yes, we will always recommend to communicate to the other co-owners of the property the installation of fixed elements.
Is it necessary to do it also when these are placed on the private terrace?
Yes, it does not matter if the terrace is private.
2. Fixed elements that everybody wishes for
2.1. Air conditioning
The air conditioning needs an exit way.
Can this apparatus be located inside the terrace or at the facade of the building?
No, for safety reasons, it must not be inside the terrace or on the façade. Nor can the equipment or cables be located on the facade.
Where should the devices and cables be placed? The best place for width is the roof.
How to place the air conditioning without creating conflicts?
Joan Clar explains: 'In Triarq Studio we solve this problem by making a plan with the precise placement of each air conditioner on the roof (...) if an owner reviews the plan and shows that an air conditioner has been installed in the wrong place, he has the right to demand its removal'.
2.2. Wooden or synthetic PVC floorboards
On top of the platform are used to put flower pots, upside down staples with the platform 'this is not allowed' -says mr. Clar-. Let's not forget that: it prevents proper cleaning and maintenance of the waterproofed terrace. As a result, the asphalt fabric gets dirty and deteriorates.
What is the deterioration process? First, rainwater stagnates under the decking, secondly, we cannot drain it or clean it. Finally, when the surface dries out, the problem persists.
2.3. Porches, pergolas or awnings
Those three fixed elements are prohibited.
If you choose to fix them to the ground, they perforate the waterproof fabric and cause leaks. In case of choosing to fix them to the wall, it is forbidden to install permanent fastening systems for the awnings.
2.4. Large flower pots and planters
They have to be on wheels or attached to the windows on the inside. Huge trees cannot be planted because, as with decking, they get wet underneath and can no longer dry out. Nor can saucers with plants be used because they spill.
2.5. White grass or artificial turf
These are also forbidden elements: they alter, cover the decking and spoil the terrace flooring. It should be noted that, if this occurs, the owner will pay the repair.
2.6. Lights, satellite and telephone antennas or solar panels
The light is invasive so it can disturb from the street or another neighbor. Similarly, all types of antennas and solar panels can be seen from the outside. For this reason, all four elements need to be protected from the outside.
2.7. The flags case
The case of flags is particular because they are semi-fixed elements due to their light weight.
The answer goes beyond the field of real estate law. Thus, it is mentioned in articles 18 and 20 of the Spanish Constitution: click on this link to learn more.
3. Let's talk about solutions!
We understand that you want to have a decorated terrace: it is beautiful and it leaves a mark
That's why we offer you five solutions to achieve it:
a) In the case of air conditioning: ask for the drawing up of a plan showing the location of each appliance
b) When it comes to floorboards: ask for technical assistance to raise them off the ground. This way, the space underneath will be accessible. Then you will be able to clean and dry it without problems
c) If you want awnings: with owners' community permission, put hooks to the wall
d) Light pots or planters and hanging saucers: the key lies in easy handling. As for saucers, they should be hung
e) Always seek the approval of the community of owners: inform, empathize and enhance interaction with the co-owners and the community of owners
4. Epilogue: is there a risk of fire from the fixed elements of the terrace?
Yes, although it is an extremely remote risk. Joan Clar is clear: 'in an open-air terrace there are no conditions to start a fire. To begin with, there is no fire, but neither will the flames alone cause a fire. The latter we can see it demonstrated in the chimneys, when they are lit, but with little firewood and descending oxygen they end up being consumed'. Despite the little danger, we recommend always having barbecues in the garden. Do you want to know more about how to prevent fires caused by barbecues? Click here.
With all the above, you can have a beautiful terrace that is not damaged at all!