October 2022
Offering new neighbours an introduction to the community benefits everyone.
Consider welcoming each new resident with a welcome package and visit by someone on a welcoming committee. Helping them learn about their new home and introducing neighbors is an easy way to make people feel welcome while encouraging involvement in activities and committees, and helping to maintain the home.
Not everyone who purchases a condominium understands the responsibilities that go with condo living. They may have come from an apartment, single-family home or environment where there was little consideration of neighbours, shared walls and community spaces. They may not be aware of repair and maintenance obligations. Educating new residents about responsibilities, and amenity and common space rules, can smooth the transition while avoiding problems and misunderstandings.
A warm, welcoming and informative introduction can include a package explaining amenities, programs and events plus a tour. Inform them of community by-laws, rules and regulations. Let them know what is in the area in terms of services, shopping, entertainment and professional services.
New residents should be provided with the following materials before or shortly after they move into a condominium property:
- Resident information form to provide basic contact information.
- Management office contact information.
- Access instructions for systems providing community information or for submission of service requests, questions and concerns.
- Governing documents including declaration, by-laws and rules that are accessible online. While this information was provided as part of the Status Certificate, making it accessible in this manner is more convenient and reduces demands on the management office.
- Details on the move-in process inclusive of renovation and contractor procedures, and elevator access.
- Access to or copies of forms for varied needs including elevator and amenity bookings, and pet registration.
- How and when to pay condo fees.
- Amenity information including availability, rules, supervision, hours of operation, and reservations where applicable.
- Procedures for dealing with trash, recycling, internet or cable services, and municipal services such as electricity, gas and water.
A welcoming committee is one of the easiest and most effective ways to develop an active community. It becomes easier to develop programs and obtain participation on committees.
Happy and well-informed residents have fewer problems or conflicts. They cause fewer difficulties for neighbours and tell others of their experience, including their real estate agent who shares information with clients who may soon want to join your community.
