What does kk mean?

When viewing property descriptions on Czech real estate websites you will probably encounter obscure terms. It is not customary to find the terms "2-room flat" and "studio flat" in the Czech Republic, rather the terms used are "2+1 flat" or "1+kk flat".

These numbers refer to the two parts of every house or flat. Let's take the "2+1 flat" as an example.

• • The first number (2) refers to the total number of rooms in the flat. This includes the bedrooms, lounge and any other rooms. In this example, the number 2 means that there is one bedroom and one lounge, or two bedrooms – depending on the flat.

  • The second number after the plus sign (1) designates the number of kitchens. Most Czech flats and houses have only one kitchen, but there are also large houses with more than one kitchen, such as two-generation houses. In these, the grandparents live in one part of the house and the children and grandchildren in the other.

  • You may also encounter flats with the addition "kk" instead of a number. This is an acronym for the Czech term "kuchyňsky kout" – kitchen area. This means that the kitchen is not a separate room and the cooking area is part of one of the other rooms. Thus, 2+kk means that there is one bedroom and another room that includes a kitchen area.

So what is the difference between a studio flat, 1+kk and a one-room flat? There is no difference. It is simply one room that includes a bedroom and a kitchen area.

In the case of flats with the designation "kk" there is another aspect that should be considered. Many flats are "1+kk" but have more space than a "2+1". Therefore, when seeking a flat for purchase in the Czech Republic pay attention to the area of the flat. Sometimes even if it is a "1+kk", it can be comfortably divided up using drywall or even furniture.

In Israel flats normally have elevators, air-conditioners and handicap access, but in the Czech Republic these are not the standard. When purchasing a new flat remember to ask about all the smallest details, as what seems completely normal in Israel is not always so in the Czech Republic.

We at Conbiz provide assistance with the purchase of flats, private homes, and buildings in Prague and throughout the Czech Republic. We would be glad to assist you as well. Contact us here.