JapanDisagree with condo association resolution. How to object?
In Japan, unit owners may object to a condominium association resolution by filing a written protest with the management association within 30 days of the resolution date, and may petition the court to cancel the resolution within 3 months if it violates the Condominium Act or is grossly unfair.
What the Law Says
The Condominium Act (Act on Land and Building Leases, etc., concerning Ownership of Units in Buildings) sets strict rules for challenging resolutions passed by condominium associations in Japan. Owners have limited but clear statutory rights to object and seek cancellation when resolutions exceed authority or violate fairness.
Under Article 31 of the Condominium Act, resolutions adopted at a meeting of unit owners are binding on all owners — but only if properly convened and decided according to law and the management regulations.
Article 32 gives unit owners the right to petition the court to cancel a resolution if it violates the Condominium Act, the building’s management regulations, or is 'grossly unfair' — provided the petition is filed within three months of the resolution date.
A written objection must be submitted to the management association within 30 days of the resolution’s adoption to preserve rights. While not always required for filing suit, timely protest strengthens legal standing and may trigger internal review.
If at least one-fifth of unit owners jointly file the petition, the court must hear the case — reinforcing collective oversight of association decisions.
Statutory TextA resolution of the meeting of unit owners shall be binding upon all unit owners.
— Condominium Act, Art. 31 — Effect of Resolutions
Statutory TextA unit owner may petition the court to cancel a resolution… if it violates this Act or the management regulations, or is grossly unfair.
— Condominium Act, Art. 32 — Cancellation of Resolutions
What to Do
Review the resolution text and meeting minutes to confirm date of adoption and procedural compliance.
Submit a written objection to the management association within 30 days of the resolution date.
Consult a lawyer to assess whether the resolution violates the Condominium Act, management regulations, or is grossly unfair.
File a petition for cancellation with the competent district court within 3 months of the resolution date.
If possible, coordinate with at least one other unit owner — joint petitions by 1/5 of owners ensure mandatory court review.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-09.