In a recent decision from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the case of Abeygunasekara v. Peel Condominium Corporation No. 392(2024 ONSC 606) offers a cautionary tale for condominium owners about the importance of unit maintenance and of understanding their responsibilities under the Condominium Act, 1998.
Read MoreOn January 24, 2025, the Ontario government announced public consultations regarding the potential expansion of the matters that the Condominium Authority Tribunal (the “CAT”) can handle to include adjudicating disputes about owners’ meetings.
This expansion of the CAT’s jurisdiction is currently anticipated to occur on July 1, 2026.
But with the continued rise of civic mistrust in democratic elections, the CAT’s foray into condominium owners’ meetings is fraught with real risks and obvious pitfalls.
Read MoreLiving in a condominium combines the benefits of private ownership with the responsibilities of collective governance. As a lawyer practicing condominium law in Ontario, I regularly witness both the opportunities and challenges that shape the condominium experience. This article aims to provide Board members and property managers with practical insights designed to improve community living, ensure compliance with the Condominium Act, 1998 (the “Act”) and the Declaration, Bylaw and Rules (“Governing Documents”), and foster a harmonious community environment.
Read MoreWith a possible Canada Post strike on the horizon, condominium corporations must consider how to comply with the service of notice requirements of the Condominium Act, 1998 (the Act) when mail service may be unavailable.
Read MoreAudrey M. Loeb and Shibley Righton LLP present a comprehensive guide to condominium ownership in Ontario. This booklet covers essential aspects of owning a condominium, including governance, financial obligations, board responsibilities, insurance, renovations, and selling or renting units.
Read MoreSince May 2024, there has been speculation about a snap Provincial election in Ontario. Premier Doug Ford has now confirmed that Ontarians will be going to the polls on February 27, 2025.
Campaigning will soon begin, and it is important for condominium managers, board members, and residents to familiarize themselves with the statutory obligations, rights, and restrictions concerning canvassing, campaign materials, and signage.
Read MoreIn a recent court case, a unit owner was ordered to sell their unit after a series of abusive and harassing behaviors. This individual filed baseless complaints against various regulatory bodies and harassed other residents, even spray-painting swastikas on doors and making offensive remarks. Despite an initial injunction, the harassment continued, leading the court to enforce a forced sale of the unit within six months. The court also awarded $55,000 in legal costs.
This case highlights the serious consequences of harassment in condominiums and serves as a reminder that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Read MoreAn Alberta court ruled that a condo corporation must investigate noise complaints from common areas. The board's refusal to address the noise from a lounge wall adjoining Ms. Aubin's unit was deemed oppressive. The corporation must now assess and potentially improve the wall's soundproofing.
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