Multi-family residence
Residents of multi-family residences share responsibility for waste storage areas.
Any changes requested to the number or types of bins in a common area affect the fees everyone in the building pays. These decisions must therefore be made in consultation with other residents.
Number and types of bins
A majority of owners in a multi-family residence must approve all changes to waste bins. Because waste collection fees depend on the number and types of bins, changing this setup affects all residents in the building.
A representative of the homeowners' association can order or return bins on behalf of residents through My Pages.
While not required during the application process, having written documentation of approval, such as meeting minutes, is best before requesting changes.
We Are All Responsible!
Homeowners' associations and owners of residential units in multi-family residences share responsibility for sorting waste. Improper sorting can lead to additional costs that all residents must share.
If an owner repeatedly sorts waste incorrectly, the homeowners' association may recover the costs from that owner under general rules of the law of obligations. A homeowners' association may also establish house rules for sorting waste. Should an owner repeatedly violate these rules, the homeowners' association may prohibit them from living or staying in the building.
More information about owners' rights and obligations is available in the Act on Multi-Owner Buildings.
Sharing waste collection costs in multi-family residences
Household waste collection fees in multi-family residences are divided among owners according to their ownership share in the relevant common area. Each owner's share is based on the floor area of their property, with allocation details set out in the declaration of property division.
While homeowners' associations may legally agree to divide shared costs using other calculation methods, these agreements cannot apply to waste collection fees. Waste collection fees are billed alongside property rates, which are based on each owner's ownership share.
Disagreements among residents over waste collection
Disagreements may arise among residents of multi-family residences over changes made without approval or failure to follow waste sorting rules. Resolving these disputes is always the responsibility of residents, and Reykjavík City cannot intervene.
Contact us
Suggestions related to Reykjavík Waste Collection Department services can be submitted through Reykjavík City's Suggestion Portal.
Reykjavík City's service center can be reached at 411-1111.
Email: info@reykjavik.is
