Pay final heating bill?

Questioner

At the end of last year, on December 30, 2022, I bought an apartment in a small-scale apartment complex. A few months later, the VvE board unpleasantly surprised me by presenting me with a final heating bill for 2022 (of approximately 700 euros). It soon became clear to me that the seller had concealed from the estate agent that a final heating bill was still pending. I also asked my notary - who had asked the VvE before drawing up the deed of sale whether there were any outstanding bills. He knew nothing about it. Both informed me that the VvE had not withheld a deposit from the selling party. My notary concluded that the VvE had failed and advised me to return the invoice. The question now is how to proceed?

Lawyer

Whether you as a buyer have to pay the final bill for heating costs depends on a number of factors: 1. Agreement: What has been agreed in the purchase agreement about these types of costs? Read the agreement carefully or discuss this with a lawyer. 2. Time of transfer: Usually, a meter reading is taken when ownership of a house is transferred. This determines the consumption for the period before the transfer and the period after the transfer. As a buyer, you are in principle responsible for the costs from the moment of transfer. 3. Service costs: In some cases, heating costs can be part of the service costs in an apartment building. This would be specifically stated in the deed of division or the house rules. It may be wise to discuss this matter further with a legal advisor or attorney to ensure you understand your rights and obligations.