just moved out of an apartment about 6 months ago and the charges were 600euro a year. same situation as yourself in that the bin charges were not included, and no gates or lifts etc. my brother owns a duplex in a complex which does have gates and lifts etc and it costs well over 1000 a year. the management company will have to put money into block insurance, general landscaping, and other maintenance bits and pieces. if the management company is any good then they will submit a balance sheet to all the occupants letting you know how much is spent on what, and what there cut is. you have to remember as well that the management company has to make a profit out of it... if they dont submit a yearly balance sheet you are entitled to get a copy of it so request the same... also, if ur purchasin this property and it is second hand ensure you get the sellers to clear their account before you sign contracts, as you will be stuck with the full bill when you occupy it.