SLO
Buying land is a significant decision that requires a thoughtful approach and the verification of numerous factors. At first glance, a plot may seem ideal, but it may later turn out that it is not possible to connect utility lines, that there is no regulated access, or that building is not permitted at all. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is recommended that you check the following key information before purchasing:
1. What can be built – municipal location information
One of the most important documents when buying land is the location information issued by the competent municipality.
It clearly defines:
- Intended land use (residential, agricultural, commercial, etc.),
- Building possibilities and conditions for issuing a building permit,
- The type of structures permitted on the land (e.g., single-family house, semi-detached house, commercial building),
- Spatial implementation conditions, such as permitted heights, roof pitch, building coverage factor, etc.
Tip: Always obtain the location information before purchasing so that you know whether your plans are permitted by the municipal spatial act.
2. Regulated access to the land
The land must have legally regulated access to a public road, either directly or via an easement. In practice, this means that it is not enough for there to be a “path in nature” leading to the land – it is important that this path is entered in the land registry.
What to check:
- Does the land have direct access to a public road?
- If access is via another plot – is an easement registered?
- Is the road public or private?
3. Utility lines and connection possibilities
Before purchasing, it is crucial to check where the utility lines (electricity, water, foul and storm sewage, gas, fiber optics) are located and whether connection to them is technically and legally possible.
It is important to know:
- The presence of an electricity line in the road does not automatically mean a connection is possible.
- Connection to the water supply or sewage system may depend on the capacity and elevation of the existing infrastructure.
- Project conditions and consents must be obtained for each connection.
4. Protection zones and other restrictions
Various protection zones may be present on the land, which can restrict construction or land use.
These zones relate to:
- Roads and railways,
- Power lines,
- Watercourses,
- Flood areas,
- Gas pipelines, telecommunication lines, etc.
Within these zones, construction may be prohibited or permitted only under certain conditions.
What to check: Check the location information, public records, or contact individual operators and stakeholders directly to see if the land lies within any protection zones and what conditions and restrictions apply within these areas.
5. Setbacks from the plot boundary
For the construction of a building, legislation (and local regulations) precisely determine the required setbacks of the building from the boundaries of neighboring plots.
These setbacks are usually:
- Min. 4 meters from the boundary (for detached buildings),
- In certain cases (e.g., terraced houses), it may be less if specifically permitted.
Tip: Before planning a project, check the exact setbacks in the municipal spatial act or location information.
Conclusion
Buying land is a long-term decision, so it is crucial to obtain all necessary information before signing a contract. Location information, utility infrastructure, legal access, protection zones, and building conditions are the basic elements that determine whether the land will meet your expectations.
