If you are considering buying a condo, be it an apartment, a townhouse or a bareland condo, it is important to understand that each condo complex in Alberta comes with its own set of rules, called the bylaws of a condominium corporation or the condo bylaws.
If you are interested in a certain unit or condo, it is important to know what exactly is in the bylaws of that specific condo complex. Obviously these rules will, generally speaking, be enforced by the condo boards.
Examples of the most common rules in condo bylaws
- Some condo bylaws allow pets, some don’t, and some only allow certain pets, or only pets up to certain weight.
- Another important rule could be age restriction. If age restriction is in place, it is usually 18+, 21+ or 40+. And yes, it has occurred where people bought a condo with a new born or while pregnant, to find out that the building is 18+, and the baby “is not allowed”. As per 2033, age discrimination in condos is not allowed anymore.
- Other examples are the non-allowance of satellite dishes, barbecues and bikes on balconies. As well as no hardwood flooring, no “for sale” signs etc.
A few of the most common rules we encounter in the condo bylaws regard pet restrictions, age restrictions, interior finishing restrictions, and restrictions on the use of outdoor spaces.
It is maybe hard to imagine, but the rules in these condo bylaws are strictly enforced by condo boards. Most will not hesitate to start a legal suit against the unit owner if s/he does not cohere to the rules.
Condominium Document Review Specialists
It is important to know the condo bylaws before you purchase a condo. Obviously, they might influence you immediately, or down the road. Make very sure you get all the condo documents, that must be provided by the seller ahead of time for you to review.
In Calgary, we highly recommend bringing all the documents to a condominium document review company. This specialist will explain to you what is, and what isn’t allowed in the condo complex. These companies are specialized in reading and interpreting the bylaws, and more importantly, the financials. The financials will show you any potential special assessment. Become fully informed before you waive your condition and make your purchase firm.
For any additional information or names of condo review companies, send us an email or call, anytime..
The above is general information and not considered legal advice. We do our best to write informative articles about real estate in Calgary, Alberta. If you have questions or concerns about our comments, please feel free to contact us.