QUESTION: Balcony and loggia: what cannot be done without approval and why?

Large-scale renovation on a balcony or loggia is often associated with the risks of violating building codes and safety rules of the entire apartment building. Many apartment owners make a fatal mistake by starting redevelopment without prior approval from specialized authorities, which can lead to serious fines and orders to return everything to its original state.

It is strictly forbidden without official permission to dismantle load-bearing walls, thresholds, and windowsill blocks, as they participate in the distribution of the building's load and provide structural rigidity. In addition, it is strictly forbidden to extend central heating radiators to the unheated balcony area, as this violates the hydraulic balance of the general house system.

To avoid such problems and not create emergency situations, it is recommended to follow the 80/20 rule and focus on legal ways to improve comfort. First, solve basic tasks, such as glazing with high-quality frames without changing the facade of the building, sealing, and insulation with permitted lightweight materials.

To organize the space, use mobile storage systems, lightweight lighting fixtures, and autonomous heat sources like an electric floor heating system or a convector. This approach will allow you to legally and safely turn the balcony into a modern and cozy relaxation area without threatening the integrity of the residential building.