condomínio

Condomínio refers to a form of property ownership common in many countries, particularly in Brazil and Portugal. It involves a building or complex of buildings that is divided into individual units, such as apartments or houses, owned by different people. However, the land, common areas, and shared facilities, like hallways, elevators, swimming pools, gardens, and structural elements of the building, are owned collectively by all the unit owners.

Each owner has exclusive rights to their individual unit and a proportional share of the common areas. The management of the condominium is typically handled by a condominium administrator (síndico in Brazil) and an assembly of owners. This administration is responsible for maintaining the common areas, collecting fees from owners to cover expenses, enforcing rules and regulations, and organizing repairs and improvements.

The fees, often called condominium fees or "taxa condominial," are mandatory for all owners and are calculated based on the size or value of their individual unit. These fees cover costs such as cleaning, security, maintenance, utilities for common areas, and salaries for any staff employed by the condominium. Disputes among owners or regarding the administration are usually resolved through legal channels or arbitration. Condominium living offers a shared responsibility model for property upkeep and amenities, often providing a sense of community and shared resources.