When we talk about living in a condominium, thoughts arise regarding the harmony between neighbors, there must be respect, responsibility in order to encourage a harmonious coexistence. When it comes to condominium entrance halls there are rules to be followed, such as secrecy regarding correspondence, it is only possible to infringe this right if there is a court order. Condominium assemblies, when you gather all the residents of the condominium you must know how to be, accept and respect all the opinions that may arise, not all will be unanimous, however, a vote is taken and the majority sells. If you live in a house you can make as much noise as you want, but if you live in a condominium this premise changes, if you want to make changes in your house you will have to do so according to certain days and times stipulated in the by-laws. When it comes to the noise of construction work that will disturb many neighbors, you may be subject to a fine if you do it outside the hours stipulated in the bylaws. The law of silence, which determines until what time it is acceptable to make noise in your home; when a certain time comes, you will have to resort to making as little noise as possible so that nobody bothers anyone in the quiet of their homes. It is common to have a large number of complaints because the neighbor throws cigarette butts onto your balcony or clothesline, or garbage, things that are inappropriate and affect the harmony of coexistence should be avoided. If you want to live in a condominium or if you already live in one, try to comply with the corresponding duties and rights so that all owners live in peace, including you, and so that there is a harmonious and trouble-free coexistence.
One of the main reasons for conflict in condominiums concerns the breakdowns in the elevators, especially when there are situations of people stuck in the elevators for several hours or when the mechanism simply stops working for several days in a row. Besides all the inconvenience caused, it adds the loss in the condominiums bills. That is, not only do you pay the usual condominium fees, but there is also the additional cost of the obligation to repair the elevator. The adversities caused by the forced stoppage of the elevator do not stop there, i.e. the neighbors are against the distribution of the repair costs. In condominiums, one of the definitive rules is the expense of repairs, if it is a matter of repair, conservation or maintenance. In other words, the principle of paying for common services, for example, electricity in the building. In other words, each owner of a fraction of a condominium pays according to her/his permilage. Dividing expenses equally can be instituted, however, it is necessary that this change be approved by a group of owners representing at least two-thirds of the value of the building, without opposition. Furthermore, the decision will have to be discussed and approved at a meeting of the joint owners. Therefore, the minutes of that meeting must detail the change and justify the criteria for the new distribution of expenses. However, the condominium can discuss, evaluate and decide on the replacement of the elevator. It should be noted that the fact that the building has an elevator presumes that all unit owners can benefit from its service. In this sense, it is natural to pay its expenses. Consequently, whether an owner is on the ground or sixth floor, none is exempt, even if they certify that they do not use the elevator. Exemption from the expenses only applies if you do not have access to the spaces served by the elevator.
In front of the sea, facing the Ria Formosa and its islands, and side by side with the marina, the new Delmar Waterfront is being born in Olhão, a private condominium with 118 apartments, according to a statement sent to SUPERCASA Notícias. In a prime location, this development has available for sale 8 3-bedroom apartments, 58 2-bedroom apartments and another 52 1-bedroom apartments, in a process led by JLLs Residential Department team, which holds the exclusive commercialization rights. Designed to offer the best of life in the Algarve, the Delmar Waterfront is a project oriented towards nature and the sea. It is developed in four blocks, with a U shape, five floors above ground, and a large central outdoor area, with garden, accessed by the condominium. The Delmar Waterfront also features a gym, a heated indoor pool, and four outdoor pools - one of which is in the central area of the development, with a childrens pool. The rooftop pools offer a different experience, with infinity edge, and 180-degree panoramic ocean views. With areas between 72 and 163.5 m², all fractions have private parking and large balconies with sea views. Besides the proximity to the sea, its exclusive location also guarantees direct access to a vast network of services and commerce, ensuring its inhabitants all the convenience, comfort and an authentic life experience with local flavor. Patrícia Barão, Head of Residential at JLL, comments: Olhão is a real pearl that is being rediscovered by the Portuguese and also by foreigners. Besides having a privileged connection to the sea and to the Ria Formosa and its islands, it has managed to maintain the true spirit of the Algarve. It is an authentic city whose layout has not been distorted by the urban development of the last decades of the 20th century. Projects like Delmar honor this legacy, while projecting Olhão into the future. It is a condominium fully integrated in its surroundings and that capitalizes on the best of a location a stones throw from the sea, with excellent apartments and a wide range of facilities. It has the best conditions to attract many Portuguese and foreign families to the East Algarve.
The demand for gated communities has increased considerably, due to the more favorable quality of life. However, there are advantages and disadvantages that you must take into consideration. You should invest some time in research, gathering as much information as possible about the condominium you intend to invest in and contacting people who already have knowledge or even experiences, in order to exchange impressions. Benefits of living in a gated community: Outdoor spaces are always under 24-hour surveillance and also have doormen/security, ultimately conveying high security. #1 Social Events and Community Living: Bonding among condo residents is more conducive by organizing events among the entire community, thus improving the atmosphere and sense of community. For families with children it becomes a great help, the possibility to let their children play in the street and know that safe is a great relief. #2 Privacy: If you dont like being interrupted or bothered by undesirable people living in a gated community is your salvation. However, many people think they have little privacy due to the fact that the construction of the houses are so close together. #3 Safety: If you favor security, living in a gated community is certainly your best choice. As mentioned above, condominiums are usually under 24-hour surveillance at the entrance and cameras, and moreover, the security guard performs day and night rounds. There are high walls and electric fences, and people who wish to have access to the premises are identified. #4 Leisure spaces: Usually this kind of condominium is full of leisure spaces, such as swimming pools, saunas, gyms, lounges, green spaces, among many others. You should take into consideration that these spaces are for the enjoyment of the whole community. For children it is the best you can have, promoting extra activities to your children is a great help. #5 Nature: Nowadays the taste for nature has increased immensely, the fact that you are not closed indoors and can go out and do a walk, run, meditation, anything is one of the great advantages of living in a gated community. They are usually surrounded by greenery, trails, lakes, and gardens. If you have a special taste for gardening many of the condos offer a private garden space where you can do whatever you want. Disadvantages of living in a gated community: #1 Rules: The advantage of recreational spaces also has trade-offs, however bearable. These common spaces are under the following of rules that must be taken into account. Condominium rules must be followed and respected by all. #2 Payment: Purchasing a gated community is under a fixed monthly fee for all expenses of the common spaces of the community. In other words, even if you purchased your home to not worry about rent you should take this fee into account. #3 Privacy: As mentioned earlier, if you are looking for a more restricted and private life, perhaps a gated community is not the best solution because of the proximity of the homes and the common spaces may sometimes be occupied by more residents. Regardless of your future choice, below are some apartments in very affordable condominiums. Lisbon Cascais and Estoril Avenidas Novas Estrela Santo António Alcântara Santa Maria Maior Misericórdia Arroios Belém Oeiras and São Julião da Barra, Paço de Arcos and Caxias Baixa (Castle) Odivelas Oeiras Porto Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau and Vitória Paranhos Ramalde Matosinhos and Leça da Palmeira Canidelo Santa Marinha and São Pedro da Afurada Bonfim Covelo Aldoar, Foz do Douro and Nevogilde Póvoa de Varzim, Beiriz and Argivai Lordelo do Ouro and Massarelos Algarve Portimão Albufeira and Olhos de Água São Gonçalo de Lagos Quarteira Rocha Patio Rocha dos Castelos Quelfes Faro (Sé and São Pedro) Olhão Ameijeira-verde Lagoa and Carvoeiro Tavira (Santa Maria and Santiago) Zona Ribeirinha São Brás de Alportel Quarteira
The Portuguese Association of Condominium Management and Administration Companies (APEGAC) met last Thursday with the National Association of Portuguese Municipalities (ANMP) to discuss actions that contribute to the contact that exists between the administrators of buildings/houses and mayors, at a time when essential European funds for the sector are on the horizon. What the association considers to be more urgent is the development of a green way of support for condominiums to facilitate the obtaining of licenses in town halls, as is the case of public road occupation due to works, and thus, make the service less bureaucratic and faster regarding the imminent publication of a notice from the Environmental Fund for maintenance works in condominiums, under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), which will have short deadlines for submission of applications. APEGAC admits that this decision will also improve the process of consulting processes and requests for plans and other documents. The organization, which is part of the Portuguese Confederation of Construction and Real Estate, warns that about half the Portuguese population lives in condominiums and in buildings that, for the most part, are more than 20-30 years old, in need of maintenance and conservation work. The president of APEGAC, Vítor Amaral, says that condominium managers, especially professionals, are a great partner for municipalities in their purpose of keeping the housing stock in good living conditions. However, the deadlines for issuing licenses for works and occupation of public roads, and the respective cost, are an obstacle to the realization of works, when these should be encouraged by municipalities. At the meeting between APEGAC and ANMP, the need to standardize the value of the elevator inspection fee in the municipalities was also addressed, since it is substantially different between each municipality. According to the representatives of the condominium managers, the elevator inspection fees may differ from 35 euros to more than 200 euros for the same service, depending on the area of Portugal where it is provided. APEGAC also intends to produce an informative document for condominium owners, to be distributed in all municipalities, in order to raise awareness of the main rules of condominium life.
Managing a condominium requires time and availability to deal with all the responsibility and conflicts that may occur. For this very reason, many condominium owners end up hiring an external company to perform this type of service. It is not always easy to select with these services, since from the moment the residents choose to do so, they automatically pass the financial, administrative, and management responsibilities to the hands of someone they dont know. Thus, it is essential to have trust in the company you hire. Condominium Management Companies: Tips #1. Ask for quotes First of all, to hire a condominium management and administration service, one should start by researching several companies in your area and select between 3 to 4 to request quotes and proposals. Once you receive the proposals, you should compare very well the values presented with the services and advantages that each one offers. Also, immediately identify some advantages and disadvantages, thus narrowing the choice down to two companies. In practice, the final choice should be based on certain components such as the services included, the monthly value, the mode of operation, contractual conditions, references, among others. However, do not forget that the decision must be made by the condominiums assembly. Therefore, if you choose to be the person who will handle the research for companies and budgets, make sure you are always transparent with everyone. #2. Selecting the services It is crucial that you inquire about the type of services that condominium management companies have available. Usually, these types of companies offer 2 or 3 packs in the area of condominium management and administration and the services differ from company to company. The most common are The accounting of the condominium; Administrative and financial management The relationship with suppliers; The whole process involving the condominiums assemblies; Collection of the quotas of each joint-owner; Insurance of the condominium; Cleaning of common areas (such as elevators, atriums or gardens, for example); Human Resources Management and Legal Support; Online access to its management; Maintenance of spaces and equipment (such as fire extinguishers, elevators, garage gates, among others). Usually, the basic package of a condominium management company covers 5 essential services (the first ones listed above). However, it is necessary to consider well what kind of services are necessary for the condominium, so that nothing is missing. Remember that the more services you hire, the higher the monthly fee you will have to pay. #3. Ask about the mode of operation Hiring a condominium management company will make a big difference in the daily lives of all residents. Besides not having to worry about receipts and possible conflicts, this type of company takes care of everything for you. In this sense, before hiring any kind of service from a company, ask about their mode of operation. That is, know what kind of follow-up the company performs to each condominium, how often they go to the locations, and what the procedures are for each service. #4. Evaluate the attendance Remember that ease of contact should be a priority. For example: if there is an urgent problem in the condo and you need to talk to the external administrator, it is essential to be able to do it via phone or e-mail. In addition to this, also analyze the physical location of the company, since it is convenient to be relatively close to your area of residence to be able to go there in case of urgency. #5. Ask for references and check the register Inquire in your area about references from other people regarding products and services in that area. After all, when it comes to hiring a condo management company, the experience of others can prevent unpleasant situations, scamming, mismanagement and negligence. Besides this, it is essential to always validate the data of the company you intend to hire before signing any contract. And in case you have doubts about the legality of any company, you can ask for information at a commercial registry office or even at the IRN. #6. Read the small print The golden rule when finalizing contracts is to analyze all the clauses. It is important to read carefully all the fine print that describes the clauses of the contract, so that you can prevent being bound by a service you dont agree with. Be aware of how long the contract lasts and how it can be cancelled. Also, give preference to short-term contracts (such as annual contracts, for example). The important thing is to analyze the contract well so that you dont have any surprises.
The evolution of regulation is a key factor for the development of this sector. Not only for this reason, but also because of it, the Associação Nacional dos Profissionais de Administração de Condomínios (ANPAC or ANPACondomínios) has just been created with the purpose of gathering the efforts and means necessary to ensure the evolution of the community of professionals in condominium administration and management, defend the interests of members, increase the quality of services provided, and participate in the sustainable development of the condominium administration sector, according to a statement sent to SUPERCASA Notícias. With this association, a new stage is opened, marked by a renewed vision of the condominium management activity. ANPAC considers that the cohesion of the sector is essential, so it is an aggregating entity, of which may be members all commercial companies - natural or legal - and entrepreneurs on their own, who exercise the activity of management or administration of condominiums, whether this, or another, their main activity. On the other hand, ANPAC defends the training of members and promotes the development of the skills of condominium managers, to provide them with high levels of expertise on the responsibilities that the activity entails and training to perform their duties. The proximity to members is one of the main focuses of ANPAC, so the association is committed to the creation of added value to ensure higher levels of professionalism for operators in this sector, through continuous and specialized training, organization of debates and open sessions for clarification. According to Eurostat data, in Portugal almost half of the population (about 46%) lives in an apartment, while 37% lives in villas and 18% in townhouses. However, the majority of the population is unaware of their rights and duties as condominium dwellers. Thats why, for the association, it is also fundamental to train citizens and increase the populations literacy about what is - and isnt - the condominium managers responsibility and what is each condominium owners responsibility. Evolution in this sector is imperative. However, it is important that the legislation is as appropriate as possible to the national reality and responds efficiently to the expectations and needs of professionals in the sector. Therefore, ANPAC intends to contribute to the regulation of the activity, collaborating to the legislative changes necessary to fill gaps and weaknesses in the new law, particularly in defining the issues relating to Local Lodging, the inapplicability of various legal institutes to the reality of condominium management companies, dissociating the economic year of the management of buildings from the calendar year, application of the VAT regime at a reduced rate in all contracts for the rehabilitation of buildings, creation of the professional category of Condominium Manager, aligning the Consumer Law with the Horizontal Property Institute, among other aspects. ANPAC considers that the new legislation, although useful, is still somewhat obsolete for the reality of condominiums, taking into account that the main challenges of the sector continue to be the lack of adequate regulation, the need for training, the absence of supervisory mechanisms, as well as the low level of knowledge of the population about the responsibilities of condominium managers. Alexandre Teixeira Mendes, President of ANPACondomínios, points out: The main challenge we intend to overcome is to enhance and professionalize this sector. Taking into account the new legislation that is beginning to be defined for regulation of this activity, it is imperative that we are consulted, involved, listened to, identified and recognized as experts in the sector of condominium management, which we intend to project to a dimension of excellence in all areas. We consider fundamental the union, modernization, and development of the professionals of this sector, to support a class that deserves the respect of the citizens and the State for the essential role it plays in the economy and in society. And this is the commitment that drives us and that we affirm as the main one before all associates. The association assumes the goal of promoting and safeguarding the interests of the professionals in the condominium management sector, always seeking to respond to the new challenges of business and the economy, which require joint commitment, adequacy, modernization of practices and action strategies, to anticipate the needs for change, in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world.
The amount of the reserve fund is a mandatory amount in the accounts of the condominium, according to article 4 of Decree-Law No. 268/94 of October 25: it is mandatory to establish, in each condominium, a common reserve fund to cover the costs of maintenance of the building or group of buildings. According to the same decree, each unit owner must contribute to the fund with an amount of at least 10% of his share in the remaining expenses of the condominium. The amount may be higher than 10%, if so decided by the owners meeting, but can never be lower. In this sense, the condominium reserve fund is the responsibility of all unit owners, ensuring a common cause: the maintenance of the building where they live, contributing to the safety of the building and of those who live there. On the other hand, it is an obligatory saving to meet any eventuality, particularly in case of need for more expensive works. Condominium Reserve Fund Management The condominiums reserve fund is the responsibility of the joint owners assembly and the condominium manager, however, it must be deposited in a financial entity, according to the law. The fund can only be operated by the condominium manager and after the condominium assembly has approved the use of this operation and the respective amount. Moreover, contributions to the reserve fund must be deposited in a condominium savings account or a term account in the name of the condominium. Interventions or works included by the Fund The condominium reserve fund can be used to pay for various interventions in the building. These include expenses with infrastructure conservation, such as painting, elevator maintenance, solar panels, water pumps, among other things, and extraordinary expenses that are not covered by insurance, such as repairing a door, for example. In the case of current expenses, such as payment of water and electricity bills or cleaning of the building, they should be paid from the amount of the quotas. However, this fund should not be used for works in autonomous fractions. This is a community fund, and is intended for work that will benefit the entire building. Advantages of the Condominium Reserve Fund The reserve fund makes it possible to maintain better control over expenses, allowing a clearer view of what are the daily or monthly expenses of the condominium and the variation in spending on maintenance work of the building. The existence of this fund also makes it possible to plan for the long term, thus avoiding having to suddenly and unexpectedly present an astronomical bill to the owners. Having an account dedicated exclusively for this purpose prevents the temptation to use this money for day-to-day expenses or for purposes other than those defined by the condominium assembly. Calculating the amount to be paid into the condominiums reserve fund The reserve fund is calculated based on the annual budget for condominium expenses. The law provides for a mandatory minimum limit of 10% of the annual budget divided by the fraction of the unit, however, if the meeting agrees, the amount may be higher. According to the condominium management companies, the fairest way to arrive at the final value is by dividing the total maintenance expenses equally over the years. In this way, if a condominium owner sells his share, he will have paid an amount related to the maintenance of the building proportional to the number of years he has enjoyed it. Thus, the new owner will also start paying for the maintenance from the year he/she bought his/her share.
As a homeowner, it is normal to have an interest in carrying out work to enhance your home. Several works can be done without putting the condominium management involved in the process. It all depends on the degree of intervention on the property. Most work in apartments does not require permits If you are considering doing minor work in your apartment, it is likely that this will not need to be approved or even communicated to your condominium before starting. As long as the integrity and esthetics of the building itself is not at stake, you can, on your own initiative, and without being accountable to anyone: Paint ceilings and walls; Proceed to laying floors; Do the placement of various cabinets; Make replacement of plumbing; Changing tiles; Perform reconstruction works in the various divisions, provided that they are confined to the same (ie, works inside their own fraction); Placing a false ceiling; Create, within the limits of your apartment, additional walls or partitions; Demolishing walls, provided they are not essential supporting walls, thus safeguarding that the integrity of the building is not jeopardized; Join two or more fractions of a building, provided they are side by side, or one above the other, without, once again, altering the structure of the building. Please note that in the case of a uniting of fractions the City Council must be informed. The only exception to this rule applies if your building is classified as historical or architectural heritage. In this case the municipality will have the final say regarding the works. Works on apartments that require permission Although the vast majority of works in apartments do not need to be notified or approved by the condominium, there are several exceptions to the rule. Any work that changes the aesthetics, architectural structure, or safety of a building will always have to be communicated and approved. In several cases it will also depend on municipal authorizations, depending on the impact of the intervention. In other words, any works that change the ground, foundations, columns, pillars, main walls or, in general, the structure of the building, including the facade, the shape of the roof or the size of the building are subject to change, as they are considered common parts. Among several of these works are evidenced: The famous transformations of balconies into annexes, so frequent in urban environments, which alter not only the aesthetic appearance but also the structure of the buildings façade and will therefore always have to involve the consent of the condominium before the work is carried out; The installation of air conditioners on the façade of the building, influencing the structure of the building, will also have to be authorized by the other owners; The construction of a pergola on your terrace or balcony will also have to go through this process; The union of the fraction to an attic area. This set of works, and others with consequences on the structure of the building, are necessarily subject to resolution of the general meeting of owners. Good practices for works in a building #1 Disclose all the information unequivocally Not only should you seek the authorization of your neighbors for all major construction works, but you should also inform residents, through a written notice posted, about all details of the future work such as: date, duration or period of greatest noise. You can even use a Minute of Works Notice, with several models available online. This communication should be available in a highly visible place, such as the entrance to the building. #2 Respect the hours for construction works defined by law The law provides that the noisiest and most intrusive works must only take place on working days, between 8 am and 8 pm. Try to respect the General Noise Regulation in order to avoid reprimands and potentially reprisals from other residents. #3 Maintain order in common spaces A construction work can often leave the adjoining spaces in an uproar. So, make sure that the certified professionals you hire dont leave material in passageways or leave common areas dirty and/or dusty. #4 Confirm that you have the respective insurances up to date Unforeseen events can happen to anyone. In this sense, never forget that when you carry out a construction project, you will be responsible to third parties in case accidents occur. Make sure you have a multi-risk insurance ready to step in if necessary. #5 Hire experienced and certified professionals To certify a safe construction site, it is important to hire qualified and certified labor. The right team will help you with the entire process of rehabilitation of your apartment, from logistical aspects to those related to the creation of the project itself. #6 Make contracts for the building work in the apartment, and ask for several quotes Be careful and leave nothing to chance. Ask for several possible quotes, so that you can compare prices, deadlines, payment methods, and even materials to be used in your work. In case this is a larger service, be sure to make a contract for your undertaking.
There is an insurance that is mandatory for all residents of a condominium to have and it is the article 1429 of the Civil Code that points it out and refers to insurance against the risk of fire, either for the autonomous units or for the common parts. To facilitate this process and since it allows a wider range of coverage, for a lower amount, it is often opted for a condominium insurance, i.e. a collective insurance, through the contracting of a condominium multi-risk policy. Condominium Insurance When we talk about condominiums, we are talking about a situation in which a given property is actually an asset shared by several people. As such, the condominium group is formed so that all parties are always represented and have their say. Condominium insurance is exactly the same. It is intended to certify coverage for damage to the property. In this sense, instead of each unit owner having fire or home contents insurance, by decision of the apartment owners assembly, the administration of the condominium purchases a single, cheaper insurance, which covers the entire building. By contracting a condominium multi-risk insurance policy, all common parts and each of the independent units of the condominium are simultaneously protected. Besides being cheaper, it has the advantage of being, in theory, faster in resolving claims, since only one insurance company will be involved. Types of insurance The types of condominium insurance differ, basically, according to the type of coverage you want and/or the deductible it covers (maximum amount of damage to be paid). The more coverage, the more premium the type of insurance will be, which will of course be reflected in the premium to be paid. Condominium Insurance: Coverage The condominium contents insurance has very similar coverage to the house contents insurance. In this sense, the risks of: Fire, lightning strike or explosion (by law, at a minimum a condominium insurance must include these items); Water damage (usually optional); Theft or robbery (involves reporting to the authorities); Storms, floods and landslides; Liability; Temporary absence of the dwelling; Demolition and removal of debris; Seismic phenomena, also optional and with a minimum deductible of 5% of the insured capital. In addition to these, the insurance may also cover damage to the condominiums contents. Condominium Insurance: Advantages The condominium insurance is simpler and quicker to activate than a home contents insurance taken out by each unit owner. In addition, it is cheaper since it is being purchased by a large group of people and the amount is automatically diluted. We are talking about savings that can range from 30% to 60% for an individual insurance with exactly the same characteristics! Another advantage is that you usually do not run the risk of complications and delays in payment, inherent to the implication of deductibles and coverage when there are several different insurances. Last but not least, this insurance is much easier to activate and to solve problems affecting common areas - after all, we are talking about a single insurer and not dozens of entities that have to be thrown into the mix. Implications for condominium owners Under this insurance, there is an essential premise: this insurance can only be taken out if at least 50% of the building units subscribe to it. In this context, each condominium member pays part of the premium, providing his fraction is immediately insured. The parties that do not subscribe to this insurance are obliged to take out at least the obligatory individual house insurance. In the case of the remaining apartment owners who do not take out the joint policy, the manager should make sure that they have individual policies and collect the respective proof (i.e. the document which certifies that the insurance is valid and paid).
The Secretary of State for Housing, Marina Gonçalves, assured, in a meeting with the president, Vítor Amaral, and the vice-president, Francisco Dias, of APEGAC, that the government is working on a diploma that aims to regulate the activity and intends to be a working tool for the maintenance of buildings in horizontal property, revealed the entity in a statement. At this meeting, held last Thursday, June 9, were exposed the concerns of the sector, particularly regarding the need to regulate the professional activity of condominium management, pointed out the APEGAC. In addition, the energy efficiency of buildings; the need for buildings to have a maintenance and inspection plan; the creation of lines of support for condominiums; the incentive for the creation of the common reserve fund; the possibility of condominiums having financial years different from the calendar year; the presentation of the accounts of the condominiums to the Tax Authority, in a simplified manner; to be mandatory insurance with coverage beyond the fire risk and to be contracted exclusively by the condominium, covering all fractions; the application of reduced VAT rate for conservation works, among other issues, added the association. Quoted in the same document, Vítor Amaral stressed that APEGAC, despite being a business association, does not have a corporative sense, having as one of its main concerns the maintenance of the housing stock and the Portuguese buildings. According to the associative leader the professional management of condominiums should be seen as the main partners of the owners, which are almost five million Portuguese, and also as partners of the public authorities, which should consider them as privileged partners. According to APEGAC, the Secretary of State of Housing said that she shares all the concerns that were expressed, adding that they will be subject to analysis and that, without committing to dates, she hopes that this law is approved by the end of the year. On May 20, the entity recalled that in the last 30 years, with the growth of the housing stock, there were management and administration companies of condominiums without any kind of training, nor technical preparation, which eventually led to hundreds of complaints to the competent authorities, due to the malfunction of them. APEGAC also defended that the regulation of the activity will give more quality of life to the approximately five million people that live in condominiums in Portugal, developing security in the market and reducing unfair competition, establishing procedures and rules that are the same for all companies. Among the rules will be, for example, the obligation to have an establishment open to the public, to be of good commercial standing, to have civil liability insurance, and to have qualified technicians on staff. APEGAC estimates that there are currently about 1,400 condominium management companies operating in the country.
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