Essential information for students living in condominiums in Toronto.
A condominium corporation is a form of property ownership. Residential condominiums can range from high-rise buildings to townhouses and single-family homes. Each unit owner is a member of the condominium corporation.
Confirm with your landlord whether the property is part of a condominium. If it is, you must communicate directly with the unit owner.
The condominium corporation holds an Annual General Meeting where a Board of Directors is elected. This board, often comprising unit owners, manages the corporation. They typically hire a Property Management company to handle daily operations and ensure compliance with rules and bylaws.
While Property Managers assist with daily operations, they are not your landlord. Contact them for information, but resolve unit-specific issues with your landlord.
Your landlord must provide you with condominium rules, including guidelines on parking, pets, garbage, recreation facilities, and emergency procedures.
Landlords must provide tenant information (Form 5) to the corporation. This information is used for official records and is protected by privacy legislation.
Internal repairs are typically the landlord's responsibility, while external repairs are managed by the condominium. Contact your landlord for any maintenance issues.
Tenants are usually responsible for maintaining exclusive-use common areas like balconies or yards. Failure to do so may result in charges from the corporation.
Ensure you know emergency procedures and contact information. Condominiums may provide a "Welcome Package" with emergency numbers.
Flood: Know the location of shut-off valves.
Fire: Ensure smoke detectors and escape plans are in place.
Gas: Call the emergency gas number if you smell gas.
Hydro: Familiarize yourself with the breaker panel.
Know local emergency numbers and your complete address.
The condominium insures common elements, while unit owners insure above-standard unit components. Tenants should obtain insurance for personal belongings and liability.
Condominiums often restrict certain window coverings. Check the rules.
Confirm parking availability with your landlord and property manager. Be aware of parking rules.
Check condominium documents for pet restrictions. Pet nuisances may lead to removal orders.
The corporation may redirect rent payments to cover unpaid condominium fees. Seek legal advice if faced with such a claim.
Adhere to noise bylaws and condominium rules. Excessive noise can lead to legal action.
Contact your landlord or property manager for information on using recreational facilities.
Follow waste disposal and recycling guidelines to avoid charges.
Obtain these from your landlord.
Avoid activities like skateboarding or ball games on common roadways.
Check local bylaws regarding occupancy limits.
Follow condominium rules for moving in and out, including elevator reservations and deposits.
Introduce yourself to neighbors and be considerate of noise levels.