Community fees on the Costa del Sol — known locally as gastos de comunidad — are regular payments made by property owners in shared developments to cover the upkeep of communal areas and services. Here's what they typically include:

 

🏘️ Maintenance & Utilities

• Cleaning of communal areas (hallways, stairwells, gardens)
• Electricity and water for shared spaces (lighting, irrigation, pools)
• Lift maintenance and repairs
• General repairs to shared infrastructure

 

👷‍♂️ Staff & Services

• Concierge or caretaker salaries
• Gardeners, pool cleaners, and lifeguards
• Security services (especially in gated communities)
• Property management fees (administrator or management company)

 

🛡️ Insurance & Legal

• Insurance for communal buildings and liability
• Legal and accounting services for the community

 

🗑️ Municipal Charges

• Rubbish collection fees
• Street lighting and road maintenance (in private urbanizations)

 

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💰 How Much Do They Cost?

• Basic communities: €50–€100/month
• Mid-range: €100–€250/month
• Luxury developments: €300–€1,000+/month
  (Includes extras like gyms, spas, golf courses, and 24-hour security)

 

The exact amount depends on your property's “cuota de participación”—a percentage based on its size and location within the development.