There is a building meeting next week.
kon-do-MI-nyo — four syllables; stress the third; 'ni' in condominio makes a palatal 'ny' sound.
Use this to inform neighbours about an upcoming condominium assembly, or when you receive the formal notice. Attending is important — decisions made in your absence still bind you as a condomino (resident).
The assemblea condominiale (condominium assembly) is the decision-making body of Italian apartment buildings. It votes on maintenance, renovations, building rules, and the administrator's budget. Each apartment owner has a vote weighted by the millesimi (thousandths) of their property. Tenants can attend but cannot vote unless the owner gives them a written proxy.
Sei andato all'assemblea di condominio?
Did you go to the building meeting?
Informal question to a neighbour after the meeting; useful for catching up.
Ho ricevuto la convocazione per l'assemblea.
I received the notice for the assembly.
Convocazione is the formal written notice; must be sent at least 5 days before the meeting.
Non posso venire. Posso delegare qualcuno?
I can't come. Can I delegate someone?
Asking about proxy voting; any owner can delegate another owner or third party in writing.
The assemblea condominiale is one of Italy's most distinctive social institutions — a democracy at the microscale, deciding everything from the colour of the building facade to whether pets are allowed. Italian condominium assemblies are famous for their drama: heated debates about a leaking roof or a neighbour's illegal parking can last four hours. The assemblea must be held at least once a year; extraordinary sessions can be called whenever urgent decisions are needed.