What Is Common Area?

In-depth overview of common areas within properties, including their types, examples, legal considerations, and management.

A common area is a portion of property that is available for use by all owners or tenants. Common areas serve various functions and facilitate essential aspects of community living or business operations within a shared property.

Types of Common Areas

Common areas can vary significantly depending on the property type:

Residential Properties

• Clubhouses: Spaces offered for social gatherings, events, and community meetings.
• Pools: Recreational facilities for residents.
• Hallways and Stairs: Essential for navigation within buildings.
• Lobbies: Areas for residents and guests to gather, wait, or interact.

Commercial Properties

• Elevators: Key for vertical transportation within multi-story buildings.
• Restrooms: Shared facilities maintained for visitor and tenant use.
• Corridors: Connect various offices or retail spaces in a building.
• Entrances and Foyers: Areas where visitors are welcomed and directed to specific locations.

Legal Considerations

Ownership and usage rights of common areas are often governed by legal agreements:

• Condominium Declarations: Legal documents describing unit boundaries and common areas.
• Lease Agreements: Specifies tenant rights and responsibilities regarding common area usage.
• Homeowners Association (HOA) Rules: Provides guidelines for common area usage, maintenance, and improvements.

Management of Common Areas

Proper management of common areas involves several aspects:

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regular cleaning schedules to ensure hygiene and aesthetics.
• Repairs: Addressing wear and tear, fixing damages promptly.

Security

• Surveillance: Installing cameras and monitoring systems.
• Access Control: Using keycards or other systems to regulate entry.

Financial Aspects

• Budgeting: Allocating funds for maintenance and improvements.
• Fees and Dues: Collecting payments from owners or tenants to cover common area expenses.

Examples of Common Areas

Residential Developments

• Example 1: A condominium complex with a gym, garden area, and playground shared by all residents.
• Example 2: An apartment building with a shared laundry room and bike storage area.

Commercial Properties

• Example 1: An office building with a central lobby, conference rooms available for tenants, and a rooftop terrace.
• Example 2: A shopping mall with common corridors, restrooms, and food courts accessible to all visitors.

Historical Context

The concept of common areas dates back to the Roman era, where communal spaces such as public baths and forums were integral to social and civic life. In medieval times, common lands were used by villagers for grazing livestock. Today, the principle of shared spaces is vital in urban and suburban developments.

Applicability

The concept of common areas is relevant in various contexts:

• Real Estate Development: Ensuring attractive amenities for potential buyers and tenants.
• Urban Planning: Designing cities with accessible public spaces.

Comparisons

• Exclusive Use Areas: Spaces owned by the condominium but reserved for the exclusive use of specific units (e.g., specific parking spots).
• Private Areas: Owned solely by individual property owners (e.g., one’s apartment or office).

Related Terms

• HOA (Homeowners Association): An organization in a subdivision, planned community, or condominium that makes and enforces rules for the properties and their residents.
• Easement: A right to cross or otherwise use someone else’s land for a specified purpose.

FAQs

Who is responsible for maintaining common areas?

Typically, the Homeowners Association (HOA) or property management company handles the maintenance of common areas.

Can common areas be used for private events?

Usage policies for common areas vary by property; some may allow private events with prior permission and possible fees.

How are disputes regarding common areas resolved?

Disputes are usually resolved according to the governing documents of the property (e.g., HOA rules, lease agreements).

References

1. Johnson, L. (2021). Real Estate Principles. McGraw-Hill Education.
2. Doyle, C. (2018). Property Management: Managing Common Areas. Kaplan Publishing.
3. Smith, R. (2019). Understanding Homeowners Associations. Wiley.

Summary

Common areas are vital components of any shared property, providing necessary and often enjoyable facilities for all occupants. Their managed and balanced use contributes significantly to the quality of living and working environments. Understanding the legal, financial, and practical aspects of common areas is crucial for both property managers and residents alike.

This structured entry on common areas ensures comprehensiveness and clarity, making it an invaluable addition to any real estate or property management reference.