Florence, 25 November 2024 – Living in condominium it is complex and everyday life proves it. As confirmed by the many disputes before justices of the peace and in courtrooms, but also, unfortunately, by some crime cases. Yet the condominium is the first important community in which we participate, just like the walls of the house. So how can we make the condominium a welcoming and non-problematic place? We talk about it with Luca Santarellilawyer expert in the matter.
Why is the condominium often associated with a battle theater?
«Given that it wouldn’t be normal to love everyone and be nice to each other, it is true that respect should instead be an objective that each of us should set ourselves. In the condominium, however, there tends to be a lot of discussion, even leading to very polarized clashes.”
How come?
«The reasons are many: personal bitterness and antipathy, questions of mere principle, personal problems that vent in assembly discussions. Sometimes there is also the administrator’s inability to be prepared, authoritative and credible. Finally, but only very rarely, true legal reasons. It is therefore with great regret that this climate takes root which deprives those directly involved of condominium serenity and denies them what is necessary today, more than ever: the so-called condominium solidarity”.
What is meant by condominium solidarity?
«After Covid, due to the heavy economic crisis, the increase in prices of all goods and energy, with the growth of new forms of poverty, the neighbor is often (or at least could be) the first real sentinel, the first real point of help and listening. Almost every phenomenon that ends up in crime news often originates within the home and condominium walls: violence against women and children, economic problems, problems of emotional and behavioral alterations. When these episodes happen, they manifest themselves with some clear clues under the eyes of both the condominium owners and the administrator.”
But what can a neighbor who notices something abnormal actually do?
«In Italy we have very strong support from municipal administrations, associations and the State with telephone numbers and offices in charge: a mere report, even anonymous, can help those in difficulty and make those who carry out this noble gesture feel good. In some simpler cases (for example the neighbor who hasn’t left the house for days or who always has the lights off) you can also intervene directly or through the administrator to understand the situation. In short, very often it’s enough not to turn your head the other way when you see a problem in the door next to us.”
**Luca mentions “administrators’ ineffective handling” as contributing to condominium strife. Can you provide specific examples of administrative shortcomings that you’ve encountered in your legal practice, and how these issues could be addressed to foster a more harmonious living environment?**
## Living in Harmony: A Candid Conversation on Condominium Life
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we’re diving deep into the realities of condominium living, a topic that often brings to mind both shared joys and frustrating conflicts.
We’re joined today by Luca Santarelli, a lawyer specializing in condominium law, and Maria Rossi, a resident and active member of her condominium association, both of whom offer valuable insights into creating a more harmonious community.
**Section 1: The Battleground Condominium: Why the Strife?**
* Luca, your expertise in condominium law reveals a recurring pattern of disputes and disagreements. You mention “personal bitterness,” “questions of principle,” and even ”administrators’ ineffective handling” as contributing factors. Can you elaborate on these points and perhaps highlight specific examples you’ve encountered?
* Maria, from your experience as a resident, do these causes resonate with your own encounters within your condominium community? What additions or nuances would you bring to this discourse?
**Section 2: Beyond the Bricks: The Concept of Condominium Solidarity**
* Luca, you introduce the concept of ”condominium solidarity,” which seems especially pertinent in today’s challenging times. Could you explain what this means in practical terms, and how it could potentially address the conflicts and tensions we’ve discussed?
* Maria, what are your thoughts on the feasibility of “condominium solidarity,” particularly within your own community? Does this resonate with your experiences, and if so, how can individuals actively contribute to fostering this sense of unity?
**Section 3: Acting with Empathy: Recognizing and Responding to Neighbours in Need**
* Luca, you highlight the role of “sentinel” that neighbours can play in identifying and addressing potential issues within a condominium. How can communities encourage this proactive approach whilst respecting individual privacy and boundaries?
* Maria, how important is it, in your view, for residents to be vigilant and supportive of their neighbours? Could you share any personal examples where neighbourly intervention made a difference?
**Section 4: Moving Towards Harmony: A Collaborative Future**
* Luca, what structural changes, in terms of legal frameworks or administrative practices, could further promote peaceful and collaborative condominium living?
* Maria, how can residents themselves shape a more supportive and cohesive community? What specific actions or initiatives could be implemented at the grassroots level?
Thank you both for sharing your insights and perspectives. This conversation has shed light on the complexities of condominium living and the potential for building more supportive and harmonious communities. Our hope is that these discussions will inspire positive change and encourage open communication within condominium communities worldwide.
