Talk to a Building Manager in Brazil: Portuguese for Maintenance Requests
Learn clear Portuguese phrases for reporting a leak, broken light, or access issue to a síndico, doorman, or building manager and confirming the next step.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
A síndico or síndica is the elected manager of a condominium building. Depending on the situation, you may also speak with the property manager or doorman. Start with the location—hallway, elevator, garage, or your unit—and describe what you can see.
Name the location and visible problem
Use tem um vazamento (there is a leak), a luz queimou (the light went out), or o portão não está abrindo (the gate is not opening). Avoid assigning blame or guessing the source of a problem before it has been checked.
Tem um vazamento perto do elevador do segundo andar.
There is a leak near the elevator on the second floor.
A luz da garagem não está acendendo.
The garage light is not turning on.
Ask how to register the request
Ask whether you should send a message, fill out a form, or speak to a specific person. If you report a problem verbally, ask whether the building can confirm that it was registered and how you will hear about an update.
If the issue is inside your apartment, clarify whether the building or the unit owner handles that kind of repair. Responsibility can depend on the building rules and the exact issue, so ask rather than assume.
Como faço para registrar esse problema?
How do I report this problem?
Esse reparo é feito pelo condomínio ou pelo morador?
Is this repair handled by the condominium or the resident?
Ask for an update without creating confusion
If the issue is still present later, refer to the date you first reported it and describe what has changed. Ask whether there is a previsão (estimate) for inspection or repair, while recognizing that the timing may still change.
For an urgent safety issue, use the building’s emergency procedure and contact the appropriate local service. This language guide helps you explain a situation; it does not determine the building’s responsibilities or emergency response.
Put it into practice
Report the location and observable issue, ask how to register it, and confirm who will provide an update.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Is this repair handled by the condominium or the resident”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.