Blog
The 10-Day Countdown to Condo Liens is Not as Simple as it Sounds
The decision of CCC 476 v Wong, 2019 ONSC 4207 released this past summer has provided some clarity around an issue that most people may not have realized was even an issue… counting to 10. Stay with me here. As many of our readers will know, one of the most effective tools that condo corporations have […]
Ontario’s Small Claims Court Raising its $$ Limits
Effective January 1, 2020, the Government of Ontario has raised the monetary threshold for Small Claims Court from $25,000 to $35,000. This means that, as of that date, monetary claims of up to $35,000 will have to be brought to Small Claims Court. Anything above that amount will continue to be adjudicated by the Superior […]
Condo Declaration May Not Impose an Obligation to Lease Parking in Perpetuity
In a recent decision, a judge ruled that a provision in a condo declaration which imposed on the corporation an obligation to lease back parking spots in perpetuity is unenforceable, against public policy and against the Planning Act. The condo corporation was permitted to terminate the lease. Facts of this case This case involved a dispute […]
Condo’s Legal Bills Sent to be Assessed
A recent court decision, Temedio v NNCC No. 6, reminds condominium corporation to be reasonable and measured when enforcing their rules and warns against excessive legal fees charged to owners. This case, provides some useful insight into the situation that unfortunately, many owners find themselves in: being asked to pay their condominium’s legal bills when they breach the rules. […]
Rosh Hashana Greetings – and a Refresher on Religious Accommodation in the Condo World
This coming Sunday evening to Tuesday evening (Sept.29-Oct.1), this CondoAdviser contributor will be logging off and spending 2 days with family and community for the observance of the Jewish High Holiday of Rosh Hashana. Rosh Hashana marks the New Year, pursuant to the Jewish lunar calendar. This year, we celebrate Year 5780! In this holiday season, […]
Court Expands Condo Lien Notification Requirements
In a not yet reported case, courts appear to have expanded the notice requirement when liening a condo unit. Failure to properly notify the owner’s spouse may render the lien invalid as against said spouse, even if she neither owns, nor occupies the unit. Facts of the case This case involves a condo unit registered […]
Federal Elections: Canvassing and Electoral Signs in Condos
And they’re off to the races !! The prime minister has asked the Governor General to dissolve parliament, setting the stage for Canada next general election. Blue, green, orange and red electoral signs (we’ve listed them alphabetically) will soon be popping everywhere and candidates will start canvassing. In fact, two local candidates have already knocked on my door, […]
Are you Getting Good Value for your Condo Fees?
In 2019, we launched our most ambitious survey, aimed at getting an accurate picture of condo fees in Ontario. What drives them up or down? How does the age or size of the corporation affect them? How do they compare from city to city? How do highrise compare to townhomes? What amenities are more expensive […]