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    Can Someone Enter My Condo Unit Without Permission?

    Door-To-Door Sales

    There are many unique aspects of condominium living that do not necessarily align with the expectations of condominium owners. As discussed in a previous post, Condominium Culture Shock, condominium owners are often surprised by the powers that condominium corporations have which can impact their day-to-day lives. In fact, condo owners in Ontario should know that it is possible, under certain circumstances, for a condo corporation to access their unit without permission.

    Condo corporations can enter your condo unit in Ontario

    In a recent decision (MTCC 1328 v 2145401 Ontario Inc.), the Superior Court of Justice and the Ontario Court of Appeal confirmed that a condominium corporation has the right to enter into a condominium unit to carry out an inspection without the consent of the owner, so long as there are sufficient grounds for doing so.

    The facts were summarized by the Court of Appeal as follows: “After a complaint about noise emanating from the staircase in the appellant’s condominium unit, the respondent, Metropolitan Toronto Condominium Corporation, requested entry into the unit to investigate. The appellant denied entry and issued a trespass notice. Consequently, the respondent brought an application for an order to enter and inspect the staircase. The application was granted. The appellant appeals that decision.”

    The Condominium Act in Ontario

    In coming to their respective decisions, both Courts noted that the Condominium Act specifically provides condominium corporations with both rights of access and a duty to take all reasonable steps to ensure that condominium owners are in compliance with the legislation as well as the Declaration, By-Laws and Rules.

    As a result, the Court held that it was inappropriate for the owner to deny access to their unit. The Court issued an order permitting the condominium corporation to enter the unit to carry out the intended inspection and this was upheld by the Court of Appeal. The resisting owner was ordered to pay $10,000 in costs for the original motion and $4,045.92 for the unsuccessful appeal.

    Condominium rights are not the same as freehold homes

    This case serves as another reminder that condominium owners do not have the same rights of exclusion that the owners of traditional freehold properties have in Ontario. It is therefore advisable for condominium owners to educate themselves with respect to the intersections between their rights and the rights and obligations of the condominium corporation. Sometimes, as demonstrated by the above-noted case, the condominium corporation’s obligations may override the rights or preferences of an individual owner. An understanding of the scenarios where this may occur will assist owners in avoiding costly litigation.

    Residents of Ontario that are moving from a freehold property to a condominium should always be aware that there are a different set of rules and regulations involved and the rights of a condo unit owner are impacted by the condominium corporation that governs the building.

    If you have any questions about condominium corporations and your rights as a condominium owner, contact the real estate lawyers at Merovitz Potechin LLP.

    The content on this website is for information purposes only and is not legal advice, which cannot be given without knowing the facts of a specific situation. You should never disregard professional legal advice or delay in seeking legal advice because of something you have read on this website. The use of the website does not establish a solicitor and client relationship. If you would like to discuss your specific legal needs with us, please contact our office at 613-563-7544 and one of our lawyers will be happy to assist you.

    Posted By: Merovitz Potechin

    Merovitz Potechin LLP has been serving the business and personal needs of the Ottawa area since 1976. Our lawyers will work directly with you throughout your legal matter.

    We are committed to asking the right questions so you obtain the best advice. We are responsive to your needs, and you can trust that we will give you the care and attention you deserve.

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