Gemeinschaftseigentum
Common Property. Everything in a condo building that isn't individual property: structure, roof, facade, stairwells, pipes and shared installations. Maintained by all owners through Hausgeld and special levies.
Major works on common property (roof renewal, facade insulation, heating replacement) are decided by WEG vote and funded from the reserve: or via Sonderumlage when the reserve falls short.
Since the 2020 WEG reform, simple majorities suffice for many modernisations, which cuts both ways: easier building improvement, but also decisions you may be outvoted on and must fund.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as common property in a German condo?
Everything that is not individual property: the structure, roof, facade, stairwells, pipes and shared installations. It is maintained by all owners jointly through Hausgeld and, where needed, special levies.
Who pays for repairs to common property?
All owners, in proportion to their shares as set in the declaration of division. This is funded first from the maintenance reserve, and by a special levy where the reserve is insufficient.
Can I renovate something that is common property?
Not on your own initiative. Work on common property requires a resolution of the owners' association, even where the element sits inside your apartment.