What to ask before voting on works at a condominium meeting

Afazeres Curiosos · published on 5 November 2026

Which majority applies

The first question is what kind of work is involved, because the majority depends on it. In general terms, conservation keeps what exists and follows the general rule; an innovation goes beyond conservation and alters or adds to the common parts. Major conservation works are, also in general terms, those that go beyond routine maintenance. If there is doubt about how a specific project is classified, legal advice is advisable.

Each owner votes with the value of their unit, as the percentage or per mille share allocated to it (Article 1430(2)): this is the 'invested capital'. Where the law requires a 'majority of owners', the number of owners also counts, one per owner, and that majority must represent the value stated. The Civil Code sets out these rules, among others:

• General rule: unless a special provision applies, a majority of the votes representing the invested capital (Article 1432(5)).
• Works classed as innovations: a majority of owners, representing two thirds of the building's total value (Article 1425(1)).
• Lifts and piped gas, with at least eight units: a majority of owners representing a majority of the total value (Article 1425(2)).
• Self-consumption production units using renewable sources, with at least two units in the building: a simple majority of owners (Article 1425(3), as worded by Law No. 29/2026).
• Works that change the building's architectural line or appearance: prior authorisation, by a majority representing two thirds of the total value (Article 1422(3)).

What to prepare for the meeting

The notice is sent 10 days in advance, in the forms set out in law, and states the day, time, place and agenda (Article 1432(1) to (4)). For major conservation works or works classed as innovations, the administrator presents at least three quotes from different sources, unless the condominium rules or the meeting provide otherwise (Article 1436(2)).

• Does the agenda describe the works clearly enough for a vote?
• Have owners received the quotes and technical information in time to read them?
• Do the quotes respond to the same specification (the document that describes the works, the materials and the conditions of the project) or description of works?
• Can someone attend to answer technical questions?

What to ask about the works

The designer, contractor and administration hold information that helps owners decide. These questions open that conversation.

• What problem do the works solve, and is there a technical assessment?
• What is included, and what further work may follow?
• Is a design needed, or any notice to the municipality?
• Who oversees the works on the condominium's behalf, and who accepts them at the end?
• What impact will they have on the units, access, services and hours? Will anyone need to enter a unit?
• Which documents stay with the condominium at the end, and what maintenance will the works need?

Who pays and how

Unless otherwise provided, the costs of conserving and using the common parts are paid by the owners in proportion to the value of their units (Article 1424(1)). Costs of common parts serving only some owners fall to those owners, and lift costs are shared by those whose units the lift can serve (Article 1424(3) and (4)). The costs of innovations follow the same article (Article 1426(1)).

• How will the works be financed, and in what instalments?
• What amount falls to each unit, and on what dates?
• How are any additional works decided during the project?

Frequently asked questions