Understanding Monthly Maintenance Fees (Aidat)

Aidat is the term for monthly building maintenance fees in Turkey, collected to cover the common expenses of a residential complex. This payment is used for the upkeep of infrastructure and shared spaces, and it is mandatory for all residents, including owners and tenants. The Condominium Law (Kat Mülkiyeti Kanunu) mandates this payment to preserve property value and quality of life in shared environments.   

What Expenses are Covered by Aidat?

The expenses covered by Aidat vary depending on the complex's facilities. Aidat is used to cover the following costs:   

• Staff Salaries: Includes the wages of security guards, cleaners, gardeners, and the building manager. In some complexes, the cost of water, electricity, and gas for the caretaker (Kapıcı) is also covered by Aidat.   
• Maintenance and Repairs: Includes the costs of maintaining elevators, generators, and shared spaces like swimming pools and sports halls, as well as minor building repairs.   
• General Expenses: Includes electricity bills for common areas (such as corridors and elevators) and the maintenance of recreational facilities.   

Expenses Not Covered by Aidat

Aidat does not cover the personal expenses of each unit. Bills for electricity, water, gas, and internet must be paid separately by the resident. Only in rare cases might certain costs, such as hot water, be added to the Aidat fee.   

Types of Aidat: Normal vs. Targeted

There are two main types of Aidat:

1. Normal Aidat (Monthly Aidat): This is the monthly fee collected for ongoing expenses, and both the owner and the tenant are obligated to pay it.   
2. Targeted Aidat (Demirbaş Aidatı): This is a one-time fee for major projects like significant repairs or new equipment purchases. This type of Aidat is the responsibility of the owner only.   

For financial transparency, these two types of Aidat must be collected in separate bank accounts.   

How Aidat is Determined and Estimated Costs

The amount of Aidat is not set by the government but is determined democratically at the annual Homeowners' Association Meetings (جلسه انجمن مالکین). Owners vote on the annual budget and expenses at these meetings.   

The Aidat amount depends on factors such as the complex's facilities and the size of the residential unit. Sometimes the fee is divided equally among all units, while at other times it is calculated based on the unit's square footage.   

For a general idea of the approximate costs, the following list can serve as a guide:

• Standard Apartments in the City: 50 to 100 Turkish Lira
• Complexes with Moderate Facilities: 300 to 450 Turkish Lira
• Luxury Complexes: 500 Turkish Lira and up (reaching 3000 Lira or more)

Consequences of Non-Payment

Failure to pay Aidat has legal consequences. The building manager has the right to take legal action to recover outstanding amounts.   

• Late Payment Penalty: According to the Condominium Law (KMK), the manager can add a monthly penalty of 5% to the overdue amount.
• Legal Action: In case of non-payment, the management has the right to take legal action after three months.
• Serious Consequences: Non-payment can lead to the eviction of tenants, and in severe cases, a court may order the sale of the owner's property to settle the Aidat debt.

Important Payment Tips

To avoid potential problems, consider the following when paying Aidat:

• Keep Payment Receipts: Always get a receipt for cash payments, and for bank transfers, include details such as the unit number and your name to have a valid record for the future.
• Check Documents: Decisions regarding the Aidat amount must be recorded in a notebook certified by a notary (نوتر). You have the right to review these documents to ensure the accuracy of the expenses.
• Legal Responsibility: Your absence from the property or non-use of facilities is not an excuse for non-payment; it is a legal obligation.

FAQ

Summary

Aidat is an important part of living in residential complexes in Turkey. Understanding these costs, their types, and the consequences of non-payment will help you plan your finances appropriately and have a comfortable living experience in Turkey.