The Legal Model of the Condominium
In a multi-apartment building ownership is divided into levels: the object of individual ownership is an apartment or non-residential space, while the common parts of the building — the roof, facade, staircases, engineering systems — are in common ownership. Acquiring the object of individual ownership requires the conclusion of the transaction in written form and the registration, upon the acquirer, of the right of ownership defined by that transaction in the public registry. This requirement is built on precisely the same rule that applies to other immovables: a written transaction and registration together create the acquisition.
The condominium model thus simultaneously protects individuality and common interest: the apartment owner is independent within their space, but the fate of the common parts is arranged together with the neighbors. Precisely this duality creates the practical questions of condominium law — from common expenses to the form of management.