Condominium Corporations & Rentals
Condominium corporations have the authority to regulate rentals within the scope of the CPA and their bylaws. This includes:
Requiring owners to provide written notice of tenant occupancy.
Imposing reasonable conditions on rentals, such as security deposits for common area damage.
Enforcing bylaws regarding tenant behavior, ensuring compliance with property rules.
Restrictions on Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb, Vrbo) present unique challenges for condominium corporations.
Corporations may ban or limit short-term rentals through their bylaws if approved by owners.
A minimum lease term (e.g., six months) may be implemented to prevent transient rentals.
Some municipalities, such as Calgary, allow condominium corporations to prohibit short-term rentals.
Steps for a Condominium Corporation to Restrict Short-Term Rentals:
Review existing bylaws to determine if restrictions are already in place.
Amend bylaws (if necessary) with approval from the required owner voting threshold.
Enforce restrictions through fines, eviction notices, or legal action.
Owner Requirements for Rental Compliance
Unit owners renting their property must comply with both the CPA and the condominium corporation’s bylaws. Common requirements include:
Providing written notice to the condominium board, including tenant contact information.
Paying a damage deposit if required by bylaws (e.g., for common area damages).
Ensuring tenants follow condominium bylaws, as owners remain legally responsible for tenant violations.
Registering rental agreements with the corporation when required.
Rental Compliance Advisory
Scenario:
A condominium board wants to enforce a minimum lease term of six months to prevent transient rentals and improve building security.
Task:
As the condominium manager, you must:
Identify whether this restriction is valid under CPA and bylaws.
Draft an advisory notice for owners explaining the restriction, outlining enforcement measures.
Considerations for the Advisory Notice:
Reference the CPA and applicable bylaws.
Explain the rationale for the restriction (e.g., security, reduced turnover, enhanced community stability).
Outline steps for compliance and consequences for non-compliance.
