What are "common area maintenance" (CAM) charges?

Common area maintenance (CAM) charges refer specifically to the costs associated with the upkeep and maintenance of shared areas in a commercial property. These areas can include lobbies, hallways, parking lots, landscaping, restrooms, and any other spaces that are utilized commonly by all tenants or occupants of the property.

CAM charges typically cover a variety of expenses such as cleaning, repairs, landscaping, property management fees, and utilities that service common areas. By ensuring these shared spaces are well-maintained, property owners enhance the overall appeal and functionality of the property, benefiting all tenants.

Other options include fees for renovations of individual tenant spaces, which do not fall under CAM since these costs are specific to one tenant; charges for security services that pertain only to security measures and activities; and fines for improper use, which serve as punitive measures rather than maintenance costs. Each of these does not accurately reflect the collective responsibility and periodic nature of common area maintenance charges, which aim to ensure that shared facilities are well-kept for everyone's use.