Independent Units, Appurtenances and Common Areas

In condominium ownership, a building has three kinds of space: each owner's own independent unit (bağımsız bölüm), the appurtenances (eklenti) assigned to that unit, and the common areas (ortak yer) shared by all owners. Which space falls into which category is set out in the project and on the deed.

Independent unit

Units such as a residence, shop or office that are self-sufficient for independent use. It is registered on the deed by its independent-unit number.

Appurtenance

Spaces assigned to a specific independent unit but lying outside it, such as a coal cellar, storage room, garden or parking spot. Which unit an appurtenance belongs to is specified in the project and on the title deed record. A claim that an unlisted storage room or parking spot 'belongs to our unit' is often a source of dispute.

Common areas

Spaces such as the foundations, main walls, roof, stairs, elevator, shelter, superintendent's residence and building entrance are common areas. Each owner has a right over the common areas in proportion to their land share; as a rule, no single owner may appropriate or alter a common area without the other owners' consent.

Common disputes

• An attic or a garden being used exclusively by one unit in practice.
• Parking spots that were never formally assigned becoming fixed to particular units by habit.
• Renovations within a unit that affect the main walls.
• Unauthorized enclosures and air-conditioning units added to the exterior facade.