In recent years, more resident parking spaces in condominium properties have been sitting vacant, raising concerns about the impact on revenue. As car ownership continues to decline, many property owners are finding it necessary to reconsider how these parking areas should be used. In this article, we introduce practical ways to make effective use of vacant condominium parking spaces, along with recommended sharing services.
Why are more parking spaces in condominiums sitting vacant?
The increase in vacant condominium parking spaces is tied to changes in the broader social structure. The three main factors are as follows.
The decline in car ownership
Car ownership has been trending downward, especially in urban areas. Several factors are contributing to this shift, including the rise in non-regular employment, the spread of car-sharing services, improved public transportation, and license surrender due to aging.Car ownership rates are declining in particular among people under 29 and those in their 30sand this trend is expected to continue.
Parking layouts that are difficult to use
Mechanical parking systems come with limits on vehicle size, weight, and height, and they are increasingly unable to accommodate the wide variety of modern vehicles. Lower-level spaces also take longer to access,making structural inconvenience one reason for lower utilization.
Usage rules that no longer match current needs
Usage rules that have not been reviewed since the property was newly built can also lead to vacant parking spaces. Common examples include fees that are out of line with nearby market rates and restrictions on tenant use.As with rent, parking fees also need to be reviewed in line with local market rates.
How should unauthorized parking in vacant spaces be addressed?
Unauthorized parking on private property is not punishable under road traffic law and is therefore treated as a civil matter. Police intervention is also limited, and self-help measures are prohibited by law.
Proper steps for responding to unauthorized parking
- Securing evidence: Photograph the vehicle and license plate, and place a warning notice under the windshield wiper
- Reporting to the police: Organize information such as the vehicle type, license plate number, and color before contacting them
- Contacting the owner directly: Request disclosure of the owner’s information from the transport bureau and send a certified notice
- Consulting a lawyer: In serious cases, filing a civil claim for damages may also be an option
Ways to prevent unauthorized parking
Setting up traffic cones or chains, posting “No Unauthorized Parking” signs, and installing security cameras are all effective measures.Security cameras not only deter misuse but also help preserve video evidence.
5 effective ways to use vacant parking spaces
Leaving vacant parking spaces unused increases both the risk of lost income and the risk of unauthorized parking. Consider the following five approaches.
1. Lease spaces to non-residents
While continuing to prioritize residents, vacant spaces with no current demand can be leased to nearby residents to generate stable income.
2. Convert them into coin parking
If you introduce a system that enables hourly parking without major construction work,you gain the advantage of serving residents first while also making the spaces available to outside users.
3. Use parking-sharing services
Parking-sharing services can be registered and managed easily from a smartphone with no initial cost, making them a simple way to monetize vacant space.
4. Invite mobile vendors such as food trucks
Bringing food trucks into vacant spaces can provide a steady source of income while also improving the appeal of the condominium property.
5. Install EV charging stations
As electric vehicles become more common, demand for charging equipment is rising.This does require capital investment, but it offers benefits in both occupancy and revenue.
How do parking-sharing services work, and what are their benefits?
Parking-sharing services allow vacant parking spaces to be listed from a smartphone and rented out on a short-term or temporary basis. The main benefits are as follows.
- Zero initial cost: Registration is free, and there are no cancellation fees
- Handled entirely by smartphone: Easy operation from taking photos and registering the space to checking revenue
- Flexible date and pricing settings: Different rates can be set for weekdays and holidays
- Demand exists outside major urban areas as well: These services can also be used in residential neighborhoods and near lesson or activity facilities
Example income simulation
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Parking fee (1,000 yen per day × 20 days) | 20,000 yen |
| Fee (48.5%) | 9,700 yen |
| Monthly revenue | 10,300 yen |
Points to note
Between 30% and 50% of the rental fee is deducted as a service fee. The service operator handles trouble-related issues,but upkeep such as cleaning the parking area and removing weeds remains the owner’s responsibility.
6 recommended parking-sharing services
| Service name | Features | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 特P | Used by more than 1 million people per month, available nationwide | 30% of sales |
| akippa | More than 3 million cumulative members, with 24-hour support | Confirmation required |
| 軒先パーキング | Membership-based for added peace of mind, with online payment support | Confirmation required |
| タイムズのB | Operated by Park24, with extensive adoption by companies | Confirmation required |
| みんちゅうSHARE-LIN | Fully performance-based model, no screening required, same-day start available | Confirmation required |
| トメレタ | Available to rent from as little as one day, with search and booking through a dedicated app | Confirmation required |
What options are available for mechanical parking systems?
Mechanical parking systems are commonly built in two-tier layouts. While they take more time and effort for vehicle entry and exit, they offer benefits such as theft prevention and protection from rain and wind. When vacancies occur, the following three options are worth considering.
Sublease (external leasing)
By leasing the spaces in bulk to a sublease operator,you can secure a fixed monthly income even when vacancies arise. The operator can also handle marketing and contract procedures, which reduces the management burden.
Removal and conversion to flat parking
Removing a mechanical parking system and converting it to flat parking can reduce maintenance and inspection costs while improving utilization. However,removal may be difficult in some cases because of the condominium’s required parking ratio, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Change of use
Changing the use to motorcycle parking or storage rooms can also be effective. Be sure to engage a specialist contractor and maintain safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Are there any initial costs for parking-sharing services?
Many services do not charge any initial cost. Registration can also be completed from a smartphone in just a few minutes.
Q. Can I prioritize residents’ parking use while also leasing spaces to outside users?
Yes. It is possible to lease spaces externally on a limited-term basis until a resident requests to use them.
Q. Can sharing services also be used for mechanical parking systems?
Availability differs by service. Vacant flat parking spaces tend to be easier to use.
Q. If someone parks without permission, can I have the vehicle towed?
Self-help measures are prohibited by law. Preserve evidence first, then respond by reporting the matter to the police or contacting the owner.
Related reading
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