Condo Renters Rules & Regs

By Linda Palfi
June 19, 2014

Owners and renters of condominium homes have far more protection against noisy neighbours than people who live in 100-per-cent rental apartment or townhouse complexes. While there is tenant protection law in Alberta under the Residential Tenancies Act, the Condominium Property Act comes first when it comes to condo renters. This is a great protection for the quiet lifestyle that makes condo living such a draw. It also means that owners can rent out their condos, but there are strict guidelines to follow.

Rules for condo renters and owners alike

rules-for-condo-renters-and-ownersRule #1 The condo corporation may require the equivalent of one month’s rent as a damage deposit from the unit owner who is renting out his or her condo. That’s apart from any damage deposits obtained from condo renters. While the owner wants some protection against possible damage inside the home, the condo corporation needs protection in case of damage to common property.

Rule #2 All corporation bylaws that apply to condo owners also apply to condo renters. Landlords and tenants should review the bylaws and obtain agreement that any condo renters will abide by every regulation which the condo owners themselves have put in place. A tenancy agreement cannot exempt condo renters from condo corporation bylaws.

Rule #3 Most condo bylaws specify that an owner renting out his or her suite is jointly responsible with his or her condo renters, for any damage and for bylaws that are not followed. In other words, if the condo renters are blasting music, the owner is equally guilty of the sin.

Finally... Condo owners are protected by the priority of the Condominium Property Act over the Residential Tenancies Act, should it come time to ask condo renters to move along. The condominium corporation does not have to ask the unit owner to do the job, or wait for the owner to act before issuing an eviction notice.

This structure means that condominium complexes are usually quieter and tidier than most rental complexes, even when many of the condo homes are rented to tenants. The condominium rules are tighter and the enforcement is usually stricter. This even benefits condo renters who want a high standard of maintenance, operation and supervision in their accommodation.

About Linda Palfi

Linda Palfi is a condominium-specialist realtor with Discover Real Estate. She has overseen many condo projects as the chair of her condo board, and is a member of the professional standards committee of the Calgary Real Estate Board. Further articles and her Calgary Condo Directory can be found online at CondosInCalgary.com.

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