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Legalization 2025

Although the deadline for submission of applications for legalization under the old law expired on June 30, 2018, changes are coming that enable limited legalization in 2025 as well – with clearly defined conditions.

Key condition: The facility must have been built by June 21, 2011 (when the DOF5/2011 aerial photographs were taken). This means that facilities built after that date cannot count on this “wave of legalization”.

Also, an amendment to the Construction Act (OG 145/24) was announced, which entered into force on January 1, 2025 and simplifies the construction and legalization procedure.

The state has announced that it will make the legalization process more legally stable through a new legal framework – so now is the time to act.

Legalization increases the market value of real estate: a property with proper documents passes appraisal more easily, and banks are also happy to accept it.

Illegal construction poses a legal and value risk – a building without a statement of completed condition or occupancy permit is not “clean” for sale, lending, rental or inheritance.

The documentation is now more extensive than in the case of older procedures – geodetic and architectural recordings of the constructed condition, confirmation that the object is on the orthophoto map, project documentation and expert certificates are required.

The cost of legalization is rising – professional documentation, additional requirements, and a greater degree of control mean a greater investment than in previous times.

What specifically applies to 2025?

If you have a building without the necessary permits, you must check:

  • whether it meets the requirements of the spatial plan (zone, distance, height, purpose) – because without this, legalization is out of the question.
  • was it built no later than 21.6.2011?

Deadlines vary – even though a new wave is announced, it doesn’t mean you have “infinite” time. Prepare the documents as soon as possible to avoid additional complications.

Testimonials

Happy clients are at the heart of what we do.

“Terren stands out for its unparalleled expertise and excellence. From the first meeting to the final delivery, the team demonstrated a high level of professionalism. Detailed reports and clear communication throughout the process facilitated understanding and decision-making. The project was completed on time and within the agreed budget.”

Lawyer and mediator Ruđer Anić, partner at the law firm Anić and partners

“As an architectural firm, we have been working with Lemax/Terren for many years regarding geodetic services and have only had positive experiences. Very accommodating and cooperative, fast and efficient.”

Certified Architectural Engineer Ivan Kapov, Director of the architectural bureau Kapov doo

"We decided to cooperate with the Terren surveying office because of their exceptional professionalism and ease of communication, and their quick and concrete response has been proven through years of cooperation on numerous projects."

Krešimir Vučko, director of Duotempus d.o.o., private investor

Željka Čorhodžić
“The entire team deserves every compliment for the work done related to the cadastral plots and the floor plans that I needed after my parents died. Everything was in complete disarray, but they managed to resolve all the problems and help with the legal aspects.”

Željka Čorhodžić

Višnjica Malović
“My many years of experience working with Terren have been very positive. Very professional approach. They guided me throughout the entire process and communicated regularly until the work was completed. I recommend Terren to anyone who wants precise and reliable results.”

Višnjica Malović

Predrag Ugarković
“Two years ago we bought a family house in Slunj with land. We needed surveying services, and on the recommendation of the old owners we came to Terreno. We are more than satisfied with their work. Fast, high-quality and very friendly service.”

Predrag Ugarković

Jelena Kravoščanec Todorović, direktorica Opereta nekretnine
"We regularly cooperate with the Terren surveying team and we are very satisfied! Everything is always done professionally, precisely and in a very short time. High level of professionalism and a warm recommendation to anyone who needs reliable services."

Jelena Kravoščanec Todorović, direktorica Opereta nekretnine

Marija Penić-Ivanko, direktorica tvrtke "Mare", privatna investitorica iz Krašića
"Working with Terren was an excellent experience. Their expertise, precision, and speed in solving all geodetic tasks far exceeded my expectations. As an investor, it was important to me to have a reliable partner who understands all the steps in the process."

Marija Penić-Ivanko, direktorica tvrtke "Mare", privatna investitorica iz Krašića

FAQ

The facility was built to date, but is not in accordance with the spatial plan?

It cannot be legalized.

Property in an area where construction is not allowed?

It cannot be legalized. It is about maritime property, areas protected by law, corridors, etc.

Can I still legalize the facility in 2025?

Yes, but under strictly defined conditions. Only buildings built until June 21, 2011. , visible on official state orthophotos. New buildings cannot enter the legalization process.

What if my building was added to after 2011?

In this case, partial legalization is possible – only the part built up to 2011, while the newer part is treated as illegal construction and must be harmonized or removed.

How long does the legalization process take?

Depending on the documentation and the promptness of the competent office, the procedure lasts from 2 to 6 months . If there are discrepancies with the spatial plan or missing documentation, it may take longer.

What if I don't legalize the facility?

An illegal building cannot be sold, donated, registered in the land register, nor can a building permit or loan be obtained on it. The new law foresees higher penalties for illegal construction , including the possibility of removal.

Can I submit the application myself?

You can submit it, but the documentation must be signed by an authorized surveyor and architect . Without this, the request will not be accepted. Our team at Terren leads the entire process — from the first recording to the finished solution.

How much is a decision on the derived condition worth?

Permanently. Once you receive a decision on the executed condition and register the building, your real estate becomes legally valid and equal to buildings that had a building permit from the beginning.