Right of View in Condominiums: Analysis of Order No. 15906 of 2024

Recently, the Court of Cassation issued order no. 15906 on June 6, 2024, which addresses the right of view in vertical alignment exercisable by owners of individual apartments within a condominium. This ruling represents an important clarification regarding the rights of condominium owners and the limitations imposed by adjacent constructions. Let us analyze the key points of this ruling and its practical implications.

The Right of Vertical View

The Court established that the owner of an apartment has the right to exercise the vertical view up to the base of the building, thus being able to oppose any construction that may jeopardize this right. This principle is based on what is provided by Article 907 of the Civil Code, which already establishes a balance between the right to privacy of the neighbor and the right of view, highlighting the importance of light and air for the health and well-being of the inhabitants.

Vertical view or downward view exercisable from the openings of individual condominium apartments - Right of the owner - Existence - Consequences - Foundation. 136112 PROPERTY - "INSPECTIO ET PROSPECTIO IN ALIENU M" Generally. 136113 PROPERTY - "INSPECTIO ET PROSPECTIO IN ALIENUM" - LATERAL OR OBLIQUE Generally. The owner of the individual floor of a condominium building has the right to exercise from their openings the vertical view up to the base of the building and consequently to oppose the construction of another condominium owner that, directly or indirectly, jeopardizes this right, without the needs for balancing with the rights of property and privacy of the neighbor being relevant, as Article 907 of the Civil Code has already balanced the interest in the same privacy and the social value expressed by the right of view, since light and air ensure the hygiene of buildings and satisfy the basic needs of those who inhabit them.

The Consequences of the Ruling

The decision of the Court of Cassation has several practical implications for property owners in condominiums:

  • Recognition of the right of vertical view as a fundamental right for the livability of living spaces.
  • Possibility for owners to oppose constructions that may limit their visibility and access to natural light.
  • Clarification on the irrelevance of others' privacy needs concerning the right to view.

This ruling represents an important step in the protection of condominium owners' rights, emphasizing the principle that the livability of living spaces must also be guaranteed through the respect of the right of view. The Court has been able to take into account the importance of light and air, essential elements for the health and well-being of the inhabitants of a condominium.

Conclusions

In conclusion, order no. 15906 of 2024 provides a clear direction regarding the rights of view in condominiums. Owners can feel more protected in their rights, being able to oppose constructions that would limit access to light and air. It is essential that condominium owners are aware of these rights and the actions they can take to protect them, thus ensuring a better quality of life in their living spaces.

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