Eigentümergemeinschaften

Eigentümergemeinschaften, often abbreviated as WEGs, are legal entities formed by the co-owners of a property, typically a condominium or a multi-unit apartment building. In many jurisdictions, particularly in German-speaking countries, the concept of WEG is central to the legal framework governing shared ownership of real estate. Each unit owner in a property managed under a WEG is an individual owner of their specific unit and also holds an undivided share in the common property. Common property includes elements like the building's structure, stairwells, roof, foundations, and any shared amenities such as gardens or swimming pools.

The primary purpose of a WEG is to manage and maintain the common property. This is achieved through collective decision-making, typically at regular owner meetings. These meetings elect an administrator or property manager who is responsible for the day-to-day operations, collecting service charges (Hausgeld) from owners to cover maintenance, repairs, insurance, and other shared expenses. A WEG operates based on a declaration of division (Teilungserklärung), which outlines the rights and obligations of each owner, defines the individual units and common areas, and specifies the proportion of ownership in the common property each owner holds. This proportion often determines their voting rights and their share of common expenses. Disputes within a WEG are usually resolved through legal channels if not settled amicably.