As barbecue season kicks off, many residents enjoy preparing meals outdoors. Grilling is a great way to spend time with family, friends, and neighbors. At YH Homes, residents are allowed to grill on their private balconies, residential yards, and shared green spaces. However, safety guidelines and consideration for others must always be observed.&nbsp;<h2>Is Grilling on the Balcony Allowed?</h2>Yes, balcony grilling is permitted under certain conditions. Electric grills are generally allowed and recommended. Residents of YH Homes may enjoy grilling on balconies, yards, and shared green areas—but only with electric grills. It's essential to follow safety instructions and be mindful of other residents to ensure a pleasant and safe experience for all.&nbsp;<h3>Laws and Balcony Grilling</h3>In Finland, there is no law that directly prohibits grilling on balconies. Balconies are considered under the resident’s control, and normal activities like dining and grilling are allowed. However, you must follow housing company rules and take safety considerations into account.&nbsp;<h3>Tips for Safe Balcony Grilling</h3><ul><li>Use an electric grill – It’s the safest option, with minimal fire risk and easy control.</li><li>Place the grill safely – On a stable, non-flammable surface, away from flammable materials.</li><li>Keep fire safety tools nearby – A fire blanket or extinguisher should be within easy reach.</li><li>Be considerate of neighbors – Keep smoke and odors to a minimum.</li></ul>Electric grilling on a balcony can be enjoyable and safe when you follow the rules and respect others. Always check your housing company’s rules before you start grilling.&nbsp;<h2>What Type of Grill Can You Use?</h2>On the Balcony:Only electric grills are permitted. They are safe, easy to use, and don’t produce excessive smoke—making them suitable for densely populated buildings.In Residential Yards:In addition to electric grills, gas grills are allowed. Use extra caution:<ul><li>Keep the grill far from flammable materials and canopies.</li><li>Ensure it’s on a stable surface.</li><li>Check that gas cylinders are properly attached and hoses connected correctly.</li></ul>Prohibited:<ul><li>Charcoal grills and open fires are strictly forbidden.</li><li>Disposable grills are also banned due to high fire risk and unstable structure.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h2>Fire Safety Reminders</h2><ul><li>Keep a fire extinguisher or blanket nearby. Never use water on grease fires—use a lid or blanket to smother flames.</li><li>If using gas grills:</li><li>A maximum of 25 kg of LPG may be stored inside an apartment, if it doesn't compromise safety.</li><li>An additional 50 kg may be stored in a separate storage room.</li><li>Store cylinders away from heat sources or direct sunlight.</li><li>Flammable items must not be kept in basement storage units.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>During Grilling</h3><ul><li>Ensure adequate ventilation—especially if the balcony is glazed.</li><li>Check grill condition before use:<ul><li>Electric: cord should be intact</li><li>Gas: cylinder securely attached and hose properly connected</li></ul></li><li>Place the grill on a stable surface to prevent tipping</li><li>Never leave the grill unattended—especially with kids or pets around</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>After Grilling</h3><ul><li>Sort waste properly:<ul><li>Aluminum trays → metal recycling</li><li>Vegetable peels → bio-waste</li><li>Clean plastic packaging → plastic recycling</li></ul></li><li>Clean the grill regularly to remove grease and debris that may cause fire.</li></ul>&nbsp;If you're interested in living in Tampere or Turku, check out our <a href="https://www.yhkodit.fi/apartments?application_type=rental&amp;region=PIR&amp;order_by=-publication&amp;limit=12&amp;offset=0">apartment listings</a> and explore available rental properties in those cities!

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Is it allowed to grill on the balcony?

<h3>Maintenance of the Building Register:</h3>Maintaining the building register is an important part of the maintenance company’s duties. Doors will only be opened for residents who are officially registered at the address. Door opening services are chargeable. This policy ensures safety within the housing company’s premises. Please remember to notify the maintenance company of the names of people moving in or out during a relocation.&nbsp;<h3>Heating System Maintenance:</h3>The maintenance company is responsible for the functionality and temperature control of the heating system. Residents are encouraged to contact the company if they suspect radiator malfunction or feel drafts in their apartment. The target indoor temperature is maintained at 20°C to ensure comfortable living conditions.&nbsp;<h3>Repairs and Maintenance:</h3>Minor repairs and adjustments are carried out as needed by the maintenance company. Larger repair work will be performed upon a separate work order. If you notice any faults or deficiencies in your apartment, the building, or the yard, please submit a fault report. This can be easily done through the website: <a href="https://oma.yhkodit.fi/">oma.yhkodit.fi</a>&nbsp;<h3>Cleaning Services:</h3>Common areas are cleaned regularly, 2–3 times a week. In spring, a more thorough cleaning is done, including sand removal, dust control, and litter cleanup. Playground equipment and outdoor furniture are also put back in place, and any yard holes are filled ahead of summer.&nbsp;<h3>Summer Maintenance:</h3>During summer, green space services handle the maintenance of shared yards. This includes fertilizing, weed removal, and trimming of shrubs and hedgerows. Lawn mowing is the responsibility of the maintenance company. If your apartment includes a private yard, its care is your responsibility.&nbsp;<h3>Autumn Maintenance:</h3>In autumn, the maintenance company is responsible for removing leaves from shared areas, placing snow marker poles, and storing swings and outdoor furniture for the winter.&nbsp;<h3>Winter Maintenance:</h3>During winter, the maintenance company handles snow removal and anti-slip measures. After snowfall, areas are plowed, and main walkways and parking areas are sanded to ensure safe movement.&nbsp;<h3>Summary:</h3>The responsibilities of the maintenance company in a housing company are diverse and essential for both resident satisfaction and property upkeep. Regular maintenance ensures smooth daily life and keeps the environment pleasant and functional year-round.

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What is the role of the maintenance company, and what are its responsibilities in a housing company?

Insufficient ventilation can cause a variety of problems in the living environment. Windows may fog up, cooking smells can spread more widely, and there may not be enough fresh air exchange in the apartment. All this creates a favorable environment for mold growth. Poor ventilation not only affects living comfort but can also increase health risks.If there's any suspicion that ventilation isn't working properly, its effectiveness can easily be tested using a piece of paper towel. Hold the paper towel up to the exhaust vent. If the airflow is adequate, it will hold the paper in place.Note!<ul><li>Remember that the vent settings must not be altered, and they should never be fully closed.</li><li>Contact the maintenance company if you accidentally change the settings.</li></ul><h3>YH Homes uses different types of ventilation systems:</h3>

A roof or attic-mounted exhaust fan draws stale air out of the apartments through exhaust vents. These vents are typically located in the WC and/or bathroom areas, walk-in closets, and kitchens. In the kitchen, air extraction can also occur via the range hood. Fresh air flows in to replace it through intake air vents, which are usually situated in the window frames.

Mechanical exhaust ventilation

A supply and exhaust air ventilation unit is located on the building’s roof or in the attic. The unit brings in fresh air through supply air vents, and air exits through exhaust air vents.

Centralized mechanical supply and exhaust ventilation

An apartment-specific ventilation unit operates independently from the ventilation systems of other apartments. The unit includes heat recovery, using the heat from the exhaust air during winter to warm the incoming fresh air.

Apartment-specific ventilation unit

<h2>How can residents support good ventilation?</h2>The upkeep of ventilation vents located inside the apartment is the resident’s responsibility. You can improve living comfort through small everyday actions and by keeping the ventilation vents clean.<h3>Here's how to ensure your ventilation works properly:</h3><ul><li>Keep doors and windows closed while cooking to prevent odors from spreading throughout the apartment.</li><li>Clean the ventilation vents 2–3 times a year. Do not change the position of the vent's central part, and never block the vent.</li><li>Don’t forget to vacuum the fresh air vent in the window if your window has one.</li><li>Clean the grease filter in the cooker hood every 1–2 months. Wash it with dish soap or in the dishwasher, if permitted for your model.</li><li>If extra ventilation is needed, air out the apartment quickly with a cross draft. Avoid prolonged airing, as it can disrupt the balance of your apartment’s ventilation.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h2>Instructions for cleaning ventilation vents:</h2><ul><li>Clean vents 2–3 times per year.</li><li>Use a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner for regular cleaning.</li><li>If needed, you can unscrew the vent by turning it counterclockwise for a thorough wash. Reattach it by turning it clockwise. Avoid touching the adjustment plate in the center to prevent altering the settings.</li><li>Heavily soiled vents can be washed with dish soap and water. Be sure to remove the gasket before washing.</li><li>If there is a sound-dampening cartridge attached to the exhaust vent, clean it gently with a soft brush if necessary—after first removing the vent.</li></ul>&nbsp;

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How does ventilation work?

<h2>Shared Housing Offers Numerous Advantages, Especially for Students and Young Adults</h2>&nbsp;Here are some key benefits:<ul><li>Cost savings: Shared housing allows residents to split living expenses among multiple people. This can significantly reduce each tenant’s monthly costs, such as rent, electricity, water, and internet. By sharing expenses, individuals have more money left for other needs or hobbies.&nbsp;</li><li>Social environment: Shared housing creates a naturally social setting. Housemates can share their daily experiences, spend time together, and support each other through various situations. This social support can be especially valuable when moving to a new city or unfamiliar environment.&nbsp;</li><li>Shared responsibilities: Shared living requires cooperation and the division of everyday responsibilities. It can teach residents important life skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and being accountable for their actions. It also fosters teamwork and personal growth.&nbsp;</li><li>Broader network: Shared housing offers the chance to build a wider social circle. Housemates often get to know one another’s friends and acquaintances, which can lead to new friendships, potential job connections, and engaging social events.&nbsp;</li><li>Flexibility: Shared living can be flexible, as residents can negotiate arrangements such as lease length, home decor, and daily routines.</li></ul>

Shared housing offers many advantages, such as financial savings, social support, shared responsibilities, a broader network, and flexibility. But how does shared living work in practice—and what should be considered before signing a rental agreement?YH Kodit signs one lease agreement, which may include, for example, a couple as the contracting parties. If you're not moving in as a couple, one person should sign the lease with YH Kodit, while the other signs a sublease with the main tenant. This arrangement allows people belonging to different households to receive housing benefits. Individuals are considered to belong to separate households if they have separate lease agreements.When the main tenant signs the lease with YH Kodit, they pay the rental deposit and are responsible for the entire apartment. The main and subtenant agree between themselves on the rent and deposit, but it's important to note that the subtenant is accountable to the main tenant. If the main tenant terminates the lease, the sublease is automatically terminated as well.From a student’s perspective, the setup is favorable, as YH Kodit only requires one full calendar month’s notice for termination.

Housing arrangements and practical considerations for shared living with YH Kodit

The main tenant is also responsible for any damages caused or unpaid rent by subtenants. According to the terms of the sublease, the amount of subrent can be freely agreed upon between the main tenant and the subtenant and does not have to correspond directly to the total rent of the apartment. At this point, it's crucial that both parties clearly agree on the amount of subrent and any additional costs, such as electricity, water, and internet fees.In shared housing, the main tenant has the right to request a rental deposit from subtenants. This deposit serves as a form of security for the main tenant, covering both rent payments and potential damages. It can be a decisive factor in giving the main tenant peace of mind regarding the subtenant’s reliability.While shared living offers many benefits, it is also important to consider the legal aspects before signing any agreements. The main tenant should thoroughly understand their responsibilities and obligations and ensure that the sublease covers all necessary elements—such as the amount of rent, due dates, and any extra charges.

The main tenant’s responsibility and the significance of the rental deposit

<h2>Shared living enriches everyday life</h2>In summary, shared housing offers numerous benefits, including financial savings, social support, shared responsibilities, a broader network, and flexibility. These advantages can make co-living an attractive option for those seeking a communal and cost-effective housing solution.Thus, shared housing is more than just a financial arrangement – it’s a lifestyle that brings diversity and richness to everyday living.<a href="https://www.yhkodit.fi/apartments?application_type=rental&amp;region=PIR&amp;room_count=3&amp;room_count=4&amp;lang=fi&amp;order_by=-publication&amp;limit=12&amp;offset=0">Check out available three- and four-room apartments in Pirkanmaa.</a> <a href="https://www.yhkodit.fi/apartments?application_type=rental&amp;region=VSU&amp;room_count=3&amp;room_count=4&amp;lang=fi&amp;order_by=-publication&amp;limit=12&amp;offset=0">Browse available three- and four-room apartments in Varsinais-Suomi.</a>

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Moving out soon – Considering shared housing?

<h1>Tackling Food Waste: Small Actions, Big Impact</h1>It is estimated that each Finn throws away 20–25 kilograms of edible food every year. This is not only an environmental issue but also a significant financial loss—wasted food means wasted money. However, with simple changes, everyone can significantly reduce food waste:<ul><li>Plan your shopping in advance: Make a shopping list and stick to it. Check your fridge before going to the store and try to use items that are nearing their expiration date first.</li><li>Use leftovers: Leftovers from the previous day can easily be turned into lunch or dinner the next day. Many dishes, such as soups, stews, and pastas, can also be frozen for later use.</li><li>Take inventory: Keep your fridge and pantry organized so you can see what you have. This helps avoid unnecessary purchases and ensures older items are used in time.</li><li>Freeze food: Freeze food that won’t be used in time, such as leftovers or overripe fruit. This helps extend the usability of food.</li><li>Use all parts of food: Use all edible parts of food when possible—for example, vegetable peels can be a great base for soups or veggie patties.</li><li>Store food properly: Follow storage instructions and use airtight containers to prevent spoilage. Proper storage extends the shelf life of food.</li></ul><h2>How to Reduce Coffee Waste with Small Changes</h2>Brewing coffee is an important part of the day for many, but it’s also a common source of food waste. It’s typical to brew too much coffee, and the leftover ends up down the drain. This means not only wasted coffee but also wasted water. Here are some tips to reduce coffee waste:<ul><li>Brew only what you need: Measure how much coffee you actually drink during the day and brew only that amount.</li><li>Use a thermos: If you brew more coffee at once, pour it into a thermos immediately. This keeps it hot without needing to brew more.</li><li>Reuse coffee grounds: Coffee grounds can be used in many ways—for example, in compost or as fertilizer for plants. They also work well as odor absorbers in the fridge or for cleaning.</li></ul><h2>From Biowaste to Energy and Fertilizer</h2>Biowaste can be used to produce biogas. Biogas is utilized to generate renewable electricity and heat, reducing the use of fossil fuels and lowering the carbon footprint. Biowaste can also be composted to create soil material and fertilizers rich in nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. By recycling biowaste properly, these nutrients can be reused in agriculture and gardening, improving soil quality and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.<h2>Biowaste Recycling</h2>Biowaste makes up a large portion of household waste, and proper sorting is essential to recover valuable nutrients and use the waste for biogas production. When recycled correctly, biowaste not only reduces landfill waste but also produces renewable energy and fertilizers.What belongs in biowaste: Food waste such as fruit and vegetable peels, leftovers, fish bones, and coffee grounds. Paper towels and napkins can also go in the biowaste bin.What does not belong in biowaste: Do not put liquid fats, cigarette butts, diapers, or other mixed waste in the biowaste bin. Soil and ash should also be sorted separately. &nbsp;

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How to reduce food waste and live environmentally friendly at home?

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Current topics

Is it allowed to grill on the balcony?

What is the role of the maintenance company, and what are its responsibilities in a housing company?

How does ventilation work?

Moving out soon – Considering shared housing?

How to reduce food waste and live environmentally friendly at home?