Avoid potential issues with your strata corporation part II

Last month, we published a blog post on how to ensure you and the strata corporation for your building or complex maintain a smooth relationship. Here are some more tips on how to approach disputes, deal with parking and more.

Present your case to the strata council

If an issue comes up, such as a bylaw fine or something else that you’d like to dispute, request a hearing with the strata council and there, explain the situation clearly and calmly. It must be submitted in writing, and contain the reason you are making the request. Upon receipt, the council has an obligation to hold the hearing within a month, likely at the next upcoming council meeting. Oftentimes, many matters can be amicably resolved in this manner without need for further legal escalation.

Learn the parking regulations

Every strata corporation handles parking spots on the respective site differently, and it’s prudent to understand the specifics whether an owner plans on living on the lot, renting it out or even selling at some point. Generally, parking stalls are either part of the strata lot, where the owner has autonomy over use, or limited common property and exclusive stall rights are part of a pre-determined lease with the developer. Or, the spots may be common property and used by all residents. Check the bylaws.

Prepare before renting

Even though you may own an apartment unit or townhome, you’re not necessarily entitled to become a full-time landlord. Most strata corporations have rules in place dictating if a) rentals of residential strata lots are allowed at all or b) the number/percentage of, and perhaps even the length of time, lots can be rented out at once. For those seeking out tenants, remember that the owner is the one a corporation will send the bill to for bylaw contraventions, so doing due diligence during the selection process is strongly advised.