Title to the common area can be held by the homeowners’ association in a planned unit development or by the owners of percentage shares in a condominium. The decision is made by the developer at the time the governing documents are prepared and is very difficult to change later. To determine who owns the common area in an association, refer to the CC&Rs. The method of common area ownership has no significant consequences in a properly insured association. Note that in condominium projects, title to the common elements must be by undivided interest to all owners. The percentage held by each owner does not necessarily determine that owner’s usage rights or cost responsibility.