ᐅ Is it possible to split a 40m² apartment into two separate units?

Dear Forum,

I am considering dividing my father’s apartment into two separate living units. The goal is to have one part available for personal use and to rent out the other part (for example, to a student, via Airbnb, etc.). Ideally, both units should have their own bathroom including a toilet and a small kitchenette. I understand that this will involve significant construction work, especially since the floor plan (see attachment) may not be ideal for this purpose. Primarily, I want to find out whether it is even feasible to separate the space in terms of structure and plumbing, and if so, how it could be done.

I would appreciate any feedback and am open to all ideas!

Thank you very much and best regards from Vienna!

Before worrying about the construction details, I would first clarify whether it is even legally allowed. On one hand, the property management might have significant say in the matter, and on the other hand, the building authority could require an additional parking space.

In Germany, as far as I know, for a separate dwelling unit you would need to plan for a kitchen and a storage room (at least in terms of space). Most likely, I would see two rooms combined in an open-plan living area, so that it could be used as a shared flat, but I consider it unrealistic to have two fully independent dwelling units (not to mention that I am opposed to profit maximization through AirBnB, and as far as I know, more and more cities are taking action against such misuse).

Basically, I had planned for there to still be a front door leading into an entrance area, from which you access the two living units – essentially a shared flat where each unit has its own bathroom and kitchenette.

I also really like the idea of a two-room shared flat with a common bathroom and kitchen! How would you arrange the two rooms?

Well, you don’t have many options for the room layout, since both need to have a window.
The kitchen can of course only be relocated if water supply and drainage can be rerouted. This is less problematic than moving a toilet but can still be challenging at times.

Two independent living units are – with all due respect – a poor idea.

Tamstar schrieb:

Well, you don’t have much choice regarding the room layout if both need to have a window.
The kitchen can of course only be relocated if water supply and drainage lines can be moved. This is less problematic than relocating a toilet but can still be difficult at times.

Two separate living units are – with all due respect – a poor idea.

Thank you very much for the drawing. I had the same idea. What are the requirements for relocating water supply and drainage lines? Or what issues could arise?

It has to flow somewhere. Wastewater that constantly runs with a sufficient slope far above will sooner or later almost certainly cause a clog, and in an existing building—especially a residential complex—you cannot just install a new downpipe through the floors below you.