The list of uses for commercial buildings is extensive. They serve as warehouses, logistics facilities, production halls, sports and event venues, or even multipurpose halls—across all industries, there are a wide variety of purposes for which a property can be used.
Each individual hall is subject to one thing: a corresponding usage permit from the building authority. This permit stipulates which business model may be carried out on the premises. Before renting or purchasing a hall, it is therefore essential to check the intended use and the existing building permit carefully. Failure to do so may result in a lot of trouble, fines, and, in the worst case, a complete ban on the use of the building.
Good to know: Architects or lawyers can provide advice on building law
If a hall is rented, it is usually the landlord's responsibility to obtain the necessary building and usage permits and then to specify the intended use in the rental agreement. However, if you want additional security, you can also consult a specialist lawyer for advice on this subject. If you are building yourself, you should also have an architect on hand. They will also take care of the legal requirements and approvals.
These two points of contact will definitely check whether all permits have been obtained for the intended use of the hall. They will also determine which documents must be submitted to the building authority if, for example, a change of use is to be applied for. It is entirely possible to convert a former warehouse into an event hall or a production facility into a shipping center—but, an application must be submitted with the relevant documents, including construction drawings, site plans, a description of operations, and special reports on fire protection, sound insulation, or emission control.
Unfortunately, real estate agents are not legally permitted to provide advice on this matter, as the issue of usage permits is a matter for the building authorities. However, we at Larbig und Mortag can provide you with basic information about your desired hall and, if necessary, refer you to other relevant contacts. Just get in touch with us!