January 2025
In today’s society, one should never assume that everyone is “on the same page” – that we have all interpreted and/or understand what is expected in the same manner. Misunderstandings and conflicts often occur within condo communities. This is why condominium corporations have rules and other governing documents.
Living in a condo community is not the same as living in a detached or semi-attached home, or a rental building.
Condominium life is living in a joint ownership community. Many individuals of varying backgrounds have agreed to live with a shared ownership in their community. While you may own your unit, you are part of a community with documents that are mandated to be adhered to. These are the rules, by-laws and declaration for your home and which must be followed. Most of this makes sense and exists for good reason. They ensure everyone is operating with the same information and preserving the integrity of the community.
Community living is not for everyone. There are rules, by-laws and a declaration that you do have to abide by for the betterment of the community. They exist to reduce conflict and ensure peaceful co-existence.
Owners jointly own the common elements of the corporation but do not have control over them or how they are maintained. Unit owners elect the condo board which governs. They create rules which require approval of unit owners. Their decisions are based on the rules, other governing documents of the corporation, and the Condo Act. As general guidance, anything occurring inside a unit should remain there. No sounds, odours or other activities should be disruptive to others. This applies to people, pets, guests and tenants in the unit or common areas. While all regular living activities are permissible, there is an understanding that absolute silence and air without any odour is impractical. Reasonable limits are expected. In short, all residents are entitled to enjoy their unit and exclusive use common elements.
All of this is in place to protect the assets of the corporation and owners. The expectation is that board members will undertake due diligence when carrying out their duties, both to ensure things are done correctly and to mitigate any liability to the corporation.
Certain actions are always unacceptable. These include an attitude of entitlement, bullying and anger. All will be dealt with in accordance with governing documents.
More common issues condominium corporations address revolve around pets, noise, odour, parking, renovations and compliance with governing documents. Most issues that arise could be resolved, and resolved more quickly, if all residents read their governing documents and make an effort to abide by them. When a conflict arises, seek to resolve the matter without involving management.
When that fails, speak with building management.
Participation within the community is encouraged. There are social activities, information or more formal meetings, committees, and serving on the condo board. Questions are welcome. Criticism is valid within reason. Arguing is discouraged. These basic courtesies help foster a happy, healthy and enjoyable living environment.
Condominium living is not for everyone. Those who embrace it have a safer, more peaceful, enjoyable and less problematic lifestyle with fewer obligations.
