Ukrainian condominium association heads must use Ukrainian in work chats

Under Ukraine's law, condominium association leaders are obligated to communicate with residents in work chats using the Ukrainian language, according to official Yelyzaveta Sachura. Cherkasy Oblast experienced a recent incident where a condominium leader, identified as OSBB, received a formal warning for breaching Article 30 of Ukraine's language law.

The state inspection discovered that OSBB had engaged in private Viber chats with apartment building co-owners using languages other than Ukrainian. OSBB, being a legal entity, argued that communication with residents was a personal matter; however, Sachura clarified that a work chat serving as the primary communication channel between the head and owners constitutes part of the head's official duties.

Consequently, any information provided to co-owners through this channel must be in Ukrainian. Article 30 of Ukraine's language law governs the use of the state language in the service sector. The OSBB leader was issued a warning and given 30 days to rectify the violation. Failure to do so, or a repeat offense within a year, could result in a fine.

Sachura warned that similar incidents might occur in other condominium associations. With over 40,000 co-owner associations of apartment buildings as of the end of 2024, she emphasized that such conduct by condominium leaders could stem from misconceptions, lack of information, or a shortage of legal awareness. She urged residents to document violations and file complaints to ensure their right to receive services in Ukrainian is respected.

Sachura concluded by encouraging everyone to uphold both the rules and mutual respect in their communities.