For those who own a car, the availability of parking is an important factor when choosing a condominium. However, it is not uncommon to find that even after selecting a condominium with parking, there are no available spaces. This article provides a detailed explanation of the types of condominium parking, contract methods, reasons for unavailability, and how to handle the situation.
What Types of Condominium Parking Are There?
Surface Parking
The most common type, with the advantage of accommodating any vehicle type or height. While easy to enter and exit, it is exposed to rain and wind since there is no roof, and can be difficult to install in urban areas.
Self-Parking Garage
A type where you drive your own vehicle up a ramp and park in a designated space. It can accommodate many parking spaces even on a small lot, making it common in urban areas.
Mechanical Parking System
A type that uses machinery to move vehicles in and out. While it has the advantage of reducing the risk of vandalism and theft, it takes more time to retrieve your vehicle.
What Are the Differences in Parking Contract Methods?
Rental Method
A method where a "parking lease agreement" is concluded with the management association as a common area, and a monthly usage fee is paid. Depending on the property, it may be free of charge.
Purchase Method
A method where you purchase the parking space. No monthly parking fee is required, but the cost is added to the condominium purchase price. Recently, even in for-sale condominiums, the rental method is becoming more common.
Why Are There No Available Parking Spaces?
- Not enough spaces for all units: The parking availability rate for new condominiums in the Greater Tokyo Area was approximately 42% (2017), and 29.5% within the Tokyo 23 wards
- Not rented to tenants: In some cases, owner-occupants are given priority
- Unauthorized parking issues: The second most common resident dispute regarding manners
What Should You Do If There Are No Available Parking Spaces?
- Join the waiting list: Contact the management company with your details and ask to be notified when a space becomes available
- Consult a real estate agency: They may have information on available monthly parking lots in the area
- Search for a nearby monthly parking lot: Look within 2 km of your home (the condition for a garage certificate)
- Consider car sharing: Can help save on parking fees and vehicle inspection costs
What Points Should You Check When Choosing a Parking Space?
- Confirm the timing and frequency of lotteries with the management association in advance
- Check whether multiple contracts are allowed
- Check the level of security equipment (cameras and lighting)
- Whether there is a roof (affects vehicle deterioration)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is the number of parking spaces in a condominium regulated by law?
A. Based on Article 20 of the Parking Lot Act, local government ordinances stipulate the required number of spaces according to the scale of the building.
Q. How many spaces can one household rent?
A. There is no legal limit; it depends on the condominium's own rules. Check with the management association in advance.
Q. What is the required distance for a garage certificate?
A. You must secure a parking space within a straight-line distance of 2 km from your home.
