Board Meetings & By-Laws: Getting on Board with Toronto Condo Living! Understanding Toronto Condo Boards: A Guide for Condo Owners
In Ontario, every condominium building is managed by a condo board of directors, often referred to simply as the condo board. This governing body is responsible for overseeing the operations and management of the condominium corporation. Whether you’re a new condo owner or considering buying a condo in Toronto, understanding how condo boards function can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
What Is a Condo Board?
A condo board is a group of elected individuals, typically unit owners, who are responsible for the governance, financial management, and maintenance of the condo building. Their responsibilities include:
- Enforcing condo bylaws and rules
- Managing the corporation’s finances
- Maintaining common areas such as lobbies, gyms, and hallways
- Approving renovations and modifications
- Addressing resident concerns and disputes
The decisions made by the condo board directly impact the living experience of all unit owners, so it’s important to stay informed and engaged.
For a closer look at condo ownership as a whole, watch this video right here!
Understanding Condo Bylaws
Each condominium corporation has a unique set of bylaws and rules, which are outlined in the original condo declaration. These regulations govern everything from pet policies to short-term rentals and renovation approvals.
Bylaws can be amended or new ones introduced, but they require a majority vote—typically at least 50% of unit owners must approve the change.
Communication with the Condo Board
As a unit owner, you have the right to communicate with your condo board about any concerns or questions. You can do this by:
- Reaching out to the board directly via email or property management
- Attending condo board meetings where you can voice your concerns
- Participating in the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to stay informed about building decisions
How Are Condo Boards Formed?
Each condo board is structured based on the Condominium Act of Ontario. Here’s how it works:
- Every condo must hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM)
- Elections for board members are typically held during the AGM if a member’s term has ended
- A condo board must have at least three members, including at least one unit owner (unless bylaws state otherwise)
- Most boards consist of three to seven members
- Terms usually last one to three years, and are staggered to ensure continuity
If a board member’s term expires, they can run for re-election. However, if unit owners feel a board member is not fulfilling their duties, they can be removed by a majority vote before their term ends.
Getting Involved in Your Condo Board
If you’re interested in having a say in how your condo is managed, consider:
- Running for a board position during elections
- Volunteering for condo committees to assist with specific tasks (e.g., finance, landscaping, security)
- Attending meetings and AGMs to stay informed and engaged
Joining your condo board or participating in committees gives you insight into the inner workings of your building and allows you to contribute to the community.
Still looking for answers to your condo questions? Here are some more videos you might find interesting:
Final Thoughts
Understanding the role of a Toronto condo board is essential for all condo owners. Whether you’re actively participating or just staying informed, knowing how the board operates can help you navigate condo living more effectively.
By staying engaged, communicating with the board, and attending meetings, you can help ensure that your condo remains a well-managed, enjoyable, and financially sound place to live.
Do you have questions about buying a condo in Toronto? We’d be happy to help! Get in touch today by filling out the form on this page, calling 416-909-9235, or emailing info@yaelandco.com.
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