Dear Condo Smarts: We live in Saskatoon, but have been looking for a retirement apartment or townhouse in Victoria for the last six months and we keep running into the same problem -- no one will allow our two dogs.
We finally found a condo in a quiet area, but once again the bylaws don't allow dogs. So we asked the strata council if we could obtain an exemption. The reply was no. We asked for a meeting, but they wouldn't even grant us a hearing.
Did the laws not change that allowed for pets, including cats and dogs?
Our realtor told us we could just move in and then we could sort it out with the council.
- Jenny D.
Dear Jenny: The most important issue you have to understand is that the council has the obligation to enforce the bylaws, but has no authority to amend them or exempt someone from them. There are some special circumstances, but they would apply to hardship exemptions for a rental bylaw and in certified special needs conditions, such as a guide dog.
Pet bylaws are permitted by the Strata Act and they are enforceable. A person who purchases a unit in a strata knowing he or she is going to violate the bylaws just invested into a pricey conflict. Never invest hoping to sort out the conflict after you move in.
Most importantly, make sure the strata is right for you. Whether it's a new home or 25 years old, consider your lifestyle. A highrise doesn't have parking for RVs, boats or oversized vehicles. A retirement complex will be unhappy surroundings for children.
Do you have musical instruments and theatre equipment? How soundproof is the condo? Are there parks nearby for your pets? Are you absent for long periods and intend to rent your unit? Do the bylaws permit rentals?
Wanting to avoid garden work, don't invest into a townhouse with a large back yard that is your responsibility.
As well as reviewing a strata's records and maintenance conditions, a bit of lifestyle reflection on your current and future needs can make your real estate purchase a positive and successful venture.
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Tony Gioventu is executive director of the Condominium Home Owners Association. Send questions to him c/o New Homes section, Times Colonist, 2126 Douglas St., B.C. V8T 4M2 or by e-mail at [email protected]