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
