An apartment management company (OMC) is usually responsible for the shared areas of a development, with owners contributing through annual service charges. Before buying, ask for the latest accounts, service-charge budget, sinking-fund position, house rules, insurance details and any planned major works or disputes. Check whether the service charges are paid up to date and whether the apartment comes with membership or voting rights in the OMC. Your solicitor can review the documents and raise queries, while further information may be available from the OMC, its managing agent or Citizens Information.