Market Report

What Rules and Restrictions Might I Encounter in a Condominium?

Every condominium is governed by its

own unique rules, regulations and bylaws.

These may be very strict or very relaxed

depending on the nature of the condominium

corporation. These are necessary to ensure

that condominiums are properly operated

and maintained and to define the rights

and obligations of the individual owners.

With respect to rules regarding the individual

owners, condominiums may have restrictions

regarding the number of occupants per

unit, pets, noise, parking and when certain

amenities may be used.

Many condominiums have strict rules

concerning the alteration of the unit space or

its appearance. For example, the condominium

corporation may require all the exterior

doors of units to be the same colour to keep

the architectural and community aspect of

the condominium intact. Additionally, you

may have to get the permission from the

condominium’s board of directors before you

change exterior fixtures or install a satellite

dish, especially as some changes may affect

the condominium structure or safety.

Noise is an important consideration,

especially for people moving from a

single-family dwelling to a multi-unit

condominium. Many condominiums have

rules regarding what noise levels will be

tolerated and at what hours. For example,

if you are hosting a party in your unit, you

may be asked to turn the music down at

a specific hour. You may wish to clarify the

rules regarding noise, and if possible, talk to

current residents about any noise problems

they have experienced in the past and how

they were handled.

Individual condominium owners may be

obliged to attend condominium meetings

or serve on condominium boards and

committees. Almost all condominiums have

requirements for the payment of monthly

condominium fees. There can also be

mandatory charges for unforeseen repairs

to the condominium common elements.

Be sure to carefully review and consider all

rules and obligations when considering the

purchase of a condominium. They should

be available from the unit’s vendor (the

seller), the property manager or the board of

directors. The rules of the condominium

will be clearly outlined in the condominium

governing documents, and you should

become familiar with them prior to

purchasing a particular condominium unit.

While the rules and regulations of

condominiums may initially seem to be

overly strict, particularly to those used to

rental housing or owning their own home,

they help to ensure that condominiums are

safe and enjoyable communities to live in for

all concerned.

Above material extracted from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation website. For more information please visit www.cmhc.ca