Information on Actions Required Post Completion
Below is a list of things you would be advised to check and arrange when or shortly before you have completed on your property.
Registration after Legal Completion.
The Title Deed is registered at the local Land Registry office, but this can take between three to six months, depending upon the workload at that particular office.
Electricity and Water Connection.
Fees of approximately €350 will become due for the connection of electricity and water. You should note that it can take up to two weeks to organise these connections so please check with your lawyer before your first visit that this work has been carried out.
In order for you to apply for your meters, the builders will have to provide you with the Certificates of Habitation, issued by the Town Hall. This is a procedure that your legal representative should assist you with.
Community of Owners. (Known as the "Condominium" in Portugal)
With large residential developments, under Portuguese law, a Condominium must be formed to govern the rights of the individuals who have bought property. The main function of the Condominium is to administer (through appointed officers) the running of the common areas, including maintenance of the gardens, swimming pools etc. The rules governing the Condominium are prescribed by law and are usually of standard format.
Sometimes owners of properties on the community have the choice to become involved in the organisation of the Condominium, which is normally run on a non-profit basis.
In the early stages of occupation on a new development, there is often no Condominium in existence, since this may not have been set up. It is likely however, that the Condominium will be formed shortly after the first few completions (signature of the Deeds) take place.
Utility Charges.
Once completion takes place, community fees, electricity charges, telephone charges, water charges etc., have to be paid. These can be paid via standing orders with banks and/or by using a management service company, a reputable "Gerente", in the locality.
