One of the major perks of condominium life is the built-in amenities: the gym, the pool, the games room, theatre room, event space, library, a community garden… and condominium-owners pay for the privilege to use them. 

But during COVID-19, with public health and safety regulations and restrictions, condominium-dwellers are unable to access their amenities, but still find themselves paying for them. As a condominium owner or dweller, what are your rights, and what can you do in this situation?

In a condominium, the condominium owners actually own everything in their condominium building together, jointly. Therefore, they are responsible for paying to maintain as well as enjoy the amenities. These payments manifest in condominium fees, along with the upkeep of common elements (elevators, stairs, hallways, etc.) and general maintenance (eg. snow removal).

COVID-19 has brought many challenges for those who want to enjoy the amenities. Many expenses related to COVID have increased in condominium buildings – such as sanitization and health retrofitting, while revenue sources for the condominium have depleted – such as visitor parking and event space rentals.

The result: unfortunately, condominium unit owners cannot simply demand to reduce their maintenance fees just because certain facilities are not being used.

But, all hope is not lost. 

Here’s what you can do: at this point, your best bet is to work together with your board of directors to find solutions that benefit all of the condominium owners to the extent possible – and RealEstateLawyers.ca can assist you with that. We can help with any condominium sale or purchase or review of a status certificate. If you have any questions, please contact me at [email protected] or call me toll free at 1-888-876-5529.