Condominiums Ordinary and Extraordinary Maintenance Works
Condominiums Ordinary and Extraordinary Maintenance Works
It may happen that a person living in Australia has inherited a home in Italy.
Italian homes are generally located in a condominium. Each condominium member is required to contribute to the maintenance costs of the shared facilities (e.g., courtyard, stairs, elevator).
The maintenance of these common parts is important to ensure the safety, comfort, and proper functioning of the building.
They are divided into two main categories: ordinary maintenance and extraordinary maintenance.
ORDINARY MAINTENANCE
The ordinary maintenance includes all work necessary to keep the common areas and building systems in good condition.
These are regular, minor interventions that do not require a resolution from the assembly to be carried out. They include, for example:
- cleaning of stairs and corridors
- elevator maintenance
- electrical and plumbing checks
- minor repairs and painting
- gutters and downspouts inspections
- periodic waterproofing.
These expenses are usually divided among all condominium members based on their share of the property.
EXTRAORDINARY MAINTENANCE
Extraordinary maintenance involves more complex and costly works, which are not performed on a regular basis, such as the renovation and replacement of major structural components or common building areas.
These interventions must be approved by the condominium assembly. Examples include:
- roof replacement
- heating system replacement
- structural consolidation
- installation of elevators or fire escapes
- renovation of courtyards and common areas
- alterations to exterior facades
- installation of solar panels
- subdivision or consolidation of property units
These expenses are also usually divided according to the property's share of the property, but, as mentioned, their execution requires a specific assembly resolution and the establishment of a special fund equal to the cost of the work.
CONCLUSION
Where you own a property located in a condominium, knowing the difference between ordinary and extraordinary maintenance is essential to understand how decisions are made and who bears the costs.
The distinction may seem clear, but in some cases it is not so straightforward: for this reason, the assistance of a professional can facilitate the correct identification of the nature of the works.
