Are Condo Fees Required Whether the Unit is Occupied or Not?

Yes, typically, condo fees are required to be paid regardless of whether the unit is occupied or not. These fees cover the costs of maintaining common areas, amenities, and services provided by the condo association. They are usually outlined in the condo association's governing documents.

Reviewing Specific Condo Association Rules

It is crucial to review your specific condo association's rules or consult with them directly for any particular provisions or exceptions that may apply. Understanding these rules can provide clarity on your responsibilities as a condo owner.

Property Tips and Tenant Considerations

If the property is titled to you and nobody is sleeping in it right now, you still need to pay the fees. This is because the fees are attached to the property, not to tenants. In the U.S., many neighbors are citizens of other countries who come to the U.S. for six months of the year for their visas. These people continue to pay all required fees.

Owner Responsibility

As the owner of record for the condo, you are legally responsible for the monthly dues or fees, not the inhabitants. If the inhabitants are tenants, they may be paying that amount or more in rent. A lease could also contain a fee for the condo monthly, as well as other terms that specify when the lease expires or terminates.

Importance of Condo Fees

Even if the unit is not occupied, the owner must pay the fees. The condo corporation relies on each owner's monthly contributions to ensure that it can continue to operate well. Condo fees cover a wide range of maintenance and repairs that are required to the exterior of the building, the grounds, and the common areas. These can include important tasks like snow removal, lawn mowing, and fence painting. Extra fees are also collected and set aside for anticipated major repairs, such as a new roof every 10 years.

Common Amenities and Services

Your fee might also include security and definitely insurance. These costs go on regardless of what happens within the walls of your unit. You can ask to see the budget from the Condo association to see what your condo fees pay for. Even if ALL the units are unoccupied, there are still operating costs.