When searching for a condo, buyers should consider if a prospective unit will also be a comfortable living situation for any children or pets. With regards to the latter, condominium law and condo board regulations may be in place regulating the types of pets or pet behaviour allowed in a building. Those who own an Ontario condo and have a concern about a neighbour’s pet or their own should be aware of these rules.

Those who have concerns regarding negligent pet owners in their building likewise need to understand what rules exist according to their condo board. Those who feel rules are not being followed should write a letter of complaint to the condo directors. It is a good idea to put everything in writing in case issues escalate.

Condo boards who receive complaints about loud or poorly cared-for animals can follow up on complaints by requesting that pet owners change their behaviour. In severe situations, the condo board, neighbours and pet owners may need to turn to Ontario condominium law to resolve an issue. In these cases, maintaining a record of violations and collecting as much evidence as possible may be a wise idea.

Both pet owners and their neighbours must abide by Ontario condominium law as well as their building bylaws. Condo boards are charged with enforcing these regulations in the hopes that everyone can feel safe and comfortable in their homes. A lawyer with experience in real estate law can help advise either party if serious disputes or questions about rights and responsibilities arise.