Real Estate- View allLast updated: 2026-03-13

Condominium Management Associations in Japan: Legal Issues and Governance

Key Takeaways

  • Changing management rules requires at least three-quarters approval of unit owners
  • Unpaid management fees can be collected through litigation with lien rights
  • Proper reserve fund amounts are guided by government guidelines
  • Major repairs without a general meeting resolution may be invalidated

Condominium management associations are governed by the Sectional Ownership Act. Resolutions require majority for routine matters (Art. 39), 3/4 for major changes/rule amendments (Art. 17, 31), and 4/5 for rebuilding (Art. 62). Management fee arrears carry statutory liens (Art. 7) and transfer to buyers (Art. 8). MLIT guidelines recommend ¥238-335/m² monthly for repair reserves.

This article provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal issues, please consult with a qualified attorney.

Related Articles

Related Q&A

Related Legal Terms

Find a lawyer through your local bar association

JFBA Legal Consultation Guide →