1-10 sur 180 résultats
13/03/2026
Long perceived as an administrative formality, a real estate transaction in co-ownership has become a true compliance exercise. Today, selling or buying a fraction is no longer limited to a promise to purchase and a cursory review of financial statements. The certificate on the state of the co-ownership (ASEC), up-to-date registers, and compliance with Bill 16 are redefining the expectations of stakeholders....
23/02/2026
The aging of Quebec’s real estate stock is no longer a theoretical projection: it is now well documented and is concretely visible on the ground. In co-ownership, this reality translates into a marked increase in major work to be planned and carried out — façades, roofs, balconies, parking areas, building envelopes and mechanical systems. According to data from the Regroupement des gestionnaires et copropriétaires du Québec (RGCQ), the average age of the co-ownership stock in Quebec now exceeds 30 years. This data point is far from trivial: it corresponds precisely to the period when several critical components reach the end of their useful life or require major interventions....
11/02/2026
Automatic water shut-off systems, also known as water leak detection systems — as they combine leak detection and automatic water supply interruption — are gaining popularity in co-ownership properties. Their ability to prevent water damage and curb rising insurance premiums makes them a strategic tool for preserving building value, benefiting both the syndicate and co-owners. Beyond the technical aspect, these systems form part of a broader approach to governance and preventive building management, consistent with collective life in co-ownership....
11/02/2026
When purchasing a divided co-ownership property, many buyers mistakenly believe that the notary’s work and the delivery of documents are sufficient to guarantee a risk-free, complete, and fully secure transaction. Yet, even in a well-regulated context such as co-ownership, certain irregularities may persist and only come to light after the transaction. Title defects, encroachments, or unpublished charges may, in particular, escape the initial review. This is precisely where title insurance becomes truly meaningful....
09/02/2026
Since the adoption of Act 16 in 2019, the co-ownership sector has been living to the rhythm of announcements, postponements and awaited regulations. For many syndicates, this reform long remained abstract, perceived as a distant undertaking or one reserved for large co-ownerships. However, 2025 marks a real turning point: obligations become concrete, measurable and, above all, enforceable. Three tools are now at the heart of syndicate governance: the maintenance logbook, the contingency fund study and the certificate of the state of the co-ownership (ASEC). Their objective is clear: to move away from reactive management and toward a logic of planning, transparency and protection of the built patrimony....
03/02/2026
A municipality undertakes a public infrastructure project: widening of a roadway, addition of a sidewalk, installation of a technical network. To do so, it proceeds with the expropriation of a portion of a building held in co-ownership. The portion concerned corresponds to a common portion — sometimes even a common portion for restricted use, used exclusively by certain co-owners for many years. A question quickly arises: to whom must the expropriation compensation be paid? To the co-ownership syndicate, to the co-owners, or to both?...
28/01/2026
Horizontal co-ownerships—row houses, semi-detached houses, or so-called “townhouses”—are often perceived as a simple and friendly arrangement, especially when compared to multi-storey residential buildings. In practice, however, they can raise certain management challenges. This is due in particular to the fact that many co-owners tend, wrongly, to consider themselves as simple homeowners, forgetting that the divided co-ownership regime fully applies. This mistaken perception is not the only source of difficulty. Another, more technical issue concerns the consistency of legal documents. Indeed, it sometimes happens that the cadastral plan, the descriptive statement of fractions, and the text of the declaration of co-ownership do not perfectly align....
16/01/2026
The awarding of contracts for major work, repair of garage slabs, replacement of roofs, structural work or interventions on the building envelope, constitutes a pivotal moment in the life of a co-ownership. The sums at stake are significant, expectations are high and the legal risks are very real. In this context, the architect plays a fundamental role in the analysis of tenders. However, the case law consistently reminds us that this analysis, however rigorous it may be from a technical standpoint, cannot replace the role of legal counsel, which falls to the lawyer. Two major decisions make this distinction particularly enlightening....
14/01/2026
Changing the financial year of a co-ownership syndicate may, at first glance, appear to be a simple administrative matter. However, it is a legally regulated decision with sometimes underestimated effects, which cannot be made lightly or without complying with the rules set out in the declaration of co-ownership and by the tax authorities. Before considering such a change, it is therefore essential to clearly understand who holds the decision-making power, what steps must be taken, and what the concrete consequences are for the syndicate....
13/01/2026
In Montréal, the condo market is competitive. Buyers visit several units in a short period of time and rely heavily on their first impression and their sense of well-being. Décor and property enhancement (home staging) therefore play a key role in selling faster — and often at a better price. Here is a practical column to understand how to prepare a condo for sale from a décor perspective, and what Montréal buyers are really looking for. Our team offers you a free consultation with a Home Staging expert to help you maximize the price and showcase the property for visual marketing....
12/01/2026
The labour shortage in property management: direct impacts on the management of co-ownerships Quebec is facing a marked shortage of qualified managers, at a time when the legal requirements governing co-ownership are becoming increasingly complex. Between the gradual coming into force of Law 16, the adjustments related to Law 141 and the aging of a real estate stock whose average age exceeds 30 years, syndicates must cope with increased pressure. This shortage directly affects the quality of management and the ability of boards of directors (BoD) to fulfill their role....
22/12/2025
Financial transparency is one of the cornerstones of trust between a syndicate’s board of directors and its co-owners. In medium-sized or large co-ownerships, using a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) to prepare audited financial statements—or at least reviewed financial statements—represents an excellent governance practice. This mechanism not only helps ensure the reliability of financial information, but also strengthens the credibility of the board of directors in the exercise of its duties. However, one question comes up regularly at annual meetings or during budget discussions: is it necessary to change auditors every five years?...
14/12/2025
For many years, the co-ownership sector has evolved in a climate of latent tension, often fueled by a form of misunderstanding between management offices and the co-owners themselves. But is this tension really attributable to one or the other of these actors? One may legitimately doubt this when observing, on the one hand, the increasingly high-performing digital innovations developed by the sector, and, on the other hand, the efforts made by developers to design buildings better adapted to the functioning of co-ownership....
04/12/2025
For some time now, the co-ownership certificate has been sparking a lot of discussion in the real estate community. As a real estate broker, it is our duty to properly inform the seller about the listing fees for their property. Many of my sellers wonder why this document is so expensive and, especially, whether it should not be included in the condo fees. To understand this clearly, we must look at what this certificate is for, what it requires from syndicates, and why practices vary so much....
13/11/2025
A market in transition, but still strong Since 2020, Quebec’s real estate market has weathered many storms: a pandemic, soaring prices, and rapid interest rate hikes. After this turbulent period, 2025 marks the return of a more thoughtful and balanced market. In this more stable context, the condo stands out. For many buyers, it remains the ideal gateway to ownership: more affordable than a single-family home, easier to maintain, and centrally located in safe environments. The figures speak for themselves: in major centers such as Montreal, Laval, Quebec City, and Sherbrooke, nearly one-third of residential transactions involve co-ownerships. After a slowdown in 2023–2024, demand is rebounding, supported by gradually declining interest rates and renewed buyer confidence....
22/10/2025
Since the coming into force of the Regulation establishing various rules regarding divided co-ownership, syndicates of co-owners must now provide a certificate on the status of the co-ownership. Among the required information is, among other things, the list of losses that have affected the common portions as well as the private portions subject to a sale during the past five years. However, the increase in claims can harm the reputation of a co-ownership and reduce its appeal for future buyers. Co-owners therefore have every interest in preventing risks, notably by monitoring the condition of their water heater and ensuring that installations are carried out by qualified professionals using reliable products....
18/10/2025
Article 154 of Bill 16, adopted in 2019, continues to raise many questions in the field of co-ownership. This transitional provision, which grants syndicates a period of “up to ten years” for their contingency fund to become “sufficient,” appears clear at first glance. In practice, however, it raises significant interpretative issues with direct consequences on the financial planning of syndicates and on the ability of co-owners to contribute to replenishing a contingency fund that has often been undercapitalized for many years. It remains essential to clarify its intent to ensure consistent application across all co-ownerships....
17/10/2025
Absenteeism in the workplace is a sensitive issue for any employer, including a syndicate of co-owners that employs maintenance, janitorial, or administrative staff. When an employee is repeatedly absent — particularly on Mondays and Fridays — or provides vague medical notes such as “Off work for one week” or “Seen at the clinic – follow up in 3 days,” the director faces a dilemma: how can efficient management of work be reconciled with respect for the employee’s fundamental rights? This situation requires both prudence and fairness in handling each case. It also calls for a clear internal policy to ensure consistency, transparency, and compliance with labour standards....
09/10/2025
Le mois dernier, Yolande m’a contactée au sujet de la vente de sa maison de ville. Présidente d’un syndicat de trois copropriétés partageant une seule entrée d’eau et une mince bande de terrain, elle se dit dépassée par les nouvelles obligations issues de la réforme de la Loi sur la copropriété divise. Son problème : un copropriétaire refuse de payer sa part pour l’étude du fonds de prévoyance et le fonds d’auto-assurance. Même si le montant est limité, il soulève une question fondamentale : le refus d’un copropriétaire peut-il bloquer le respect des obligations légales du syndicat? Last month, Yolande contacted me about selling her townhouse. As president of a syndicate of three co-ownerships sharing a single water inlet and a narrow strip of land, she feels overwhelmed by the new obligations stemming from the reform of the law on divided co-ownership. Her problem: one co-owner refuses to pay his share for the contingency fund study and the self-insurance fund. Even if the amount is small, it raises a fundamental question: can a co-owner’s refusal prevent the syndicate from fulfilling its legal obligations?...
05/09/2025
When putting your condo up for sale, first impressions are often decisive. In a market where buyers compare multiple properties online before even booking a viewing, photos become your calling card. A well-prepared condo stands out, attracts more buyers, and can even sell faster... and for a better price....
04/09/2025
The direct impact on insurance: prevention is now essential With the recent introduction of the regulations of Law 16, prevention has been strengthened. Insurers no longer consider only claims history, but also the proactive measures taken by syndicates in terms of risk management. For example, a building equipped with water shutoff systems demonstrates a commitment to active prevention, which is viewed favorably when calculating premiums. In some cases, their installation even becomes a mandatory condition for coverage renewal, particularly in high-risk buildings....
13/08/2025
As of August 14, 2025, a new regulation implementing Bill 16 (adopted in 2019, supplemented in 2024 by Bill 31) will come into effect, strictly regulating divided co-ownerships. It introduces three major requirements: the maintenance log, the study of the contingency fund, and the syndicate's certification. These tools strengthen transparency, proactive management, and financial protection for Quebec buyers and co-owners....
21/07/2025
As buying a property is the biggest financial investment that many people will make, they need to be well informed when making such a major decision. For the buyer to be sure that they are making the right choice, it's essential that they have certain information about the co-ownership at the time of the transaction. Bill 16, which was passed in December 2019, includes an important measure to help buyers make the right decision. Article 1068.1 of the Civil Code of Québec, which which came into force on August 14, 2025 by government regulation, provides that the seller of a fraction must, in due time, give the promisor-buyer a certificate of the syndicate attesting to the condition of the co-ownership, whose form and content will be determined by this same regulation. This certificate must be provided to any co-owner who requests it within 15 days. ...
18/07/2025
The protection of personal information is becoming increasingly important in Québec, especially since the adoption of the Act to modernize legislative provisions as regards the protection of personal information (commonly known as Law 25), which primarily amends the Act respecting the protection of personal information in the private sector (hereinafter “the ARPPIPS”). This update also affects syndicates of co-owners, which are now subject to strict obligations regarding the collection, storage and destruction of personal information. ...
14/07/2025
Divided co-ownership, an increasingly popular form of property ownership in Québec, is based on a specific legal structure that comes with rights and responsibilities for both the co-owners and syndicates of co-owners. Among these responsibilities are the critically important, but often overlooked, obligations related to insurance coverage. Both the syndicates and individual co-owners are required to carry specific insurance coverage to comply with the law and protect themselves against various risks, such as water damage and fire. ...
11/07/2025
A real estate transaction for a condo purchase involves several steps, yet one of the most important ones is still too often overlooked by buyers: the pre-purchase inspection. This inspection is an essential tool for protecting buyers and preventing disputes....
07/07/2025
In a context where water damage is the leading cause of claims in co-ownerships, prevention has become a key issue — legally, financially, and from an insurance standpoint. The Civil Code of Québec imposes clear duties on the syndicate of co-owners when it comes to maintaining and protecting the building. This raises the question: can the syndicate require co-owners to install prevention systems like the AKWA Technologies water leak detection system, offered by HydroSolution?...
03/07/2025
Selling a co-ownership is a major project that raises its share of questions, especially when major renovations are announced or underway. Roof repairs, elevator upgrades, pool repairs, facade renovations, and parking upgrades are all investments that worry potential buyers, but can also become valuable selling points if the information is well communicated....
03/07/2025
On March 25, 2025, the Act to enact the Act respecting contracts of municipal bodies and amending various provisions primarily for the purpose of reducing the administrative burden on municipal bodies, introduced by Bill 79, was assented to. Since that date, a new provision of the Cities and Towns Act (CTA) has come into force and disrupts the operation of co-ownership syndicates when the municipality becomes the owner of a significant portion of the fractions of a building held in divided co-ownership....
10/06/2025
Managing a property entails distinct responsibilities depending on its ownership. While an individual owner enjoys complete autonomy regarding the maintenance of their property, co-ownership imposes a governance framework that oversees the preservation of collective assets. This distinction is central to management and asset management issues. An owner who enjoys exclusive rights over a single-family property, for example, exercises absolute control: they can preserve the quality of their property or, conversely, neglect it and suffer the consequences. This freedom is, however, governed by clear limits: they must not compromise the safety of others or violate municipal by-laws. But what about the rights of co-owners in a building held in co-ownership?...
04/06/2025
Although the law has not yet been adopted, it is expected that once it comes into force, every co-ownership association in Quebec will be required to have a contingency fund study conducted by a qualified professional. This study, to be renewed at least every five years, will assess the amounts needed to cover major repairs and the replacement of a building's common areas....
02/05/2025
Fire safety is a major concern for co-ownership properties in Quebec. Among the protective devices, sprinkler systems play a crucial role. But when is their installation mandatory? And what best practices should be adopted, even when not legally required?...
01/05/2025
The appeal of renting a co-ownership unit has grown significantly in recent years. However, not all co-owners are keen on renting a unit within their building, particularly because many believe the presence of tenants could disrupt their peace and quiet. Since co-ownership involves dividing a building into separate units belonging to different owners, who nevertheless share certain common areas, renting a unit in such a context raises several legal and practical questions, particularly regarding the rights and obligations of the co-owner, the tenant, and even the co-ownership association....
11/04/2025
The Act respecting the official and common language of Quebec, French (Bill 96), adopted on May 24, 2022, officially came into force on June 1, 2022. This law brought about several amendments to the Charter of the French Language and the Civil Code of Quebec with the aim of requiring the drafting in French of documents and deeds used in the real estate sector....
01/04/2025
When it comes to installing or replacing a water heater in a co-ownership, several options are available to building managers and owners, both in terms of suppliers and products. This can make the decision more complex and require careful evaluation. To ensure the durability of the installations and avoid unexpected issues, it is essential to choose a quality water heater, a reliable supplier, and solid warranties. But one must also know who is legally authorized to carry out such an installation......
18/03/2025
A well-managed co-ownership is one that maintains its value, anticipates its needs, and operates in a structured and efficient manner. A good manager does not merely perform administrative tasks: they are a true strategic partner to the board of directors, actively contributing to informed decision-making and the long-term sustainability of the building. Their role goes far beyond coordinating day-to-day operations; they are a key player in shaping a long-term vision for the property. Through their expertise, sound judgment, and ability to mobilize the right resources, they ensure proactive management that safeguards the interests of the co-owners....
04/03/2025
Le domaine de la gestion des syndicats de copropriété évolue rapidement, influencé par des réglementations de plus en plus strictes, des attentes croissantes en matière de transparence et d’éthique, ainsi que par les avancées technologiques qui transforment la manière dont les immeubles sont administrés. Plusieurs tendances marquent actuellement le secteur : L’essor des solutions pour les petites copropriétés Alors que les grandes copropriétés bénéficient généralement de services complets et structurés, les petites copropriétés ont longtemps été laissées à elles-mêmes en raison de leur budget limité. Aujourd’hui, de nouvelles solutions technologiques et organisationnelles permettent d’offrir des services adaptés aux syndicats de petite taille, leur donnant accès à des outils de gestion efficaces et à des conseils professionnels. The field of co-ownership association management is evolving rapidly, influenced by increasingly strict regulations, growing expectations for transparency and ethics, and technological advances that are transforming the way buildings are managed. Several trends are currently shaping the sector: The rise of solutions for small co-ownerships While large co-ownerships generally benefit from comprehensive and structured services, small co-ownerships have long been left to their own devices due to their limited budgets. Today, new technological and organizational solutions offer services tailored to small co-ownerships, giving them access to efficient management tools and professional advice....
03/03/2025
Resigning from your position as a co-ownership director is not a decision to be taken lightly. Often, it is the result of careful consideration, driven by increasing responsibilities, significant stress, or even disagreements within the board. This demanding role requires time and energy, and there may come a point when a director feels the need to step down, whether for personal or professional reasons, or simply due to fatigue. If this is your case, know that you have the right to resign, but it is essential to do so thoughtfully and in accordance with best practices....
19/02/2025
Over the past few years, the legislative environment governing co-ownership has been considerably strengthened, requiring co-ownership syndicates to be more rigorous in managing their buildings. Laws such as Bill 16 and Bill 141 have transformed practices by establishing increased requirements in terms of maintenance, financial planning and governance. This development requires a more professional structuring of co-ownership management and redefines the role of volunteer directors as well as managers....
03/02/2025
Today, co-ownership associations must face several major challenges that impact the management and sustainability of buildings. Rigorous planning and professional support have become essential to overcome these challenges....
24/01/2025
The market value of a co-ownership is closely linked to the management of the building. In fact, sound management of the building allows you to maintain or even increase the market value of your unit. At present, the media has not yet reported any major scandals concerning technical bankruptcies of co-ownership syndicates caused by unforeseen repairs or by losses that occurred when the insurance value of the building had not been correctly established. However, it is only a matter of time before this problem becomes widespread, because it involves significant managerial and asset risks....
24/01/2025
In the fall of 2025, the City of Montreal will publish the three-year property assessment roll for 2026-2027-2028. All property owners will receive a municipal notice informing them of the new assessment of their property that will come into effect in January 2026. It is important to read this notice to ensure that the new assessment reflects the real value of the property, as this value is used to establish the municipal tax bill....
13/01/2025
When it comes to preventing water damage in co-ownerships, the choice of system is essential, but it is equally crucial to ensure that it is installed and configured correctly. Improper installation, even with the best product on the market, can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the system, exposing the building to unnecessary risks....
10/01/2025
Wood fireplaces, appreciated for their charm and conviviality, are now raising major concerns in co-ownership buildings. Due to public health, environmental protection and safety issues, these installations must now comply with strict standards, such as those established by the Construction code. In addition, municipal regulations, particularly in Montreal, impose significant restrictions on their use and sometimes require costly compliance work. This article examines the challenges associated with these installations and proposes solutions to ensure compliance while preserving the safety of occupants....
10/01/2025
You have just purchased your new condo, and for some time now, you’ve been hearing noise that prevents you from peacefully enjoying your unit, or even completely disrupts your sleep. You ask your neighbors, and they are facing the same issue. Noise can cause stress, frustration, fatigue, and even lead to illness. This problem impacts your quality of life and could eventually compromise your psychological and physical well-being. It is crucial to act quickly to preserve peace and harmony within your co-ownership. What steps can you take to address this issue and restore tranquility?...
05/01/2025
The co-ownership register is not merely an administrative tool; it is the heartbeat of property management. Beyond recording the names and addresses of co-owners, it must also include detailed information about tenants and other occupants. This data is essential for efficiently managing interactions with all residents and ensuring effective communication, especially during emergencies or significant events like repairs or inspections. It becomes a comprehensive coordination and prevention tool, indispensable to the smooth functioning of the co-ownership....
29/12/2024
Living in a co-ownership involves striking a balance between enjoying one's unit and respecting the neighborhood. But what happens when this balance is disrupted by excessive and persistent behavior? A landmark judgment sheds light on the legal consequences of disproportionate intolerance in a co-ownership setting. This case highlights how crucial it is to respect the rights of other co-owners to maintain collective harmony. Courts can intervene decisively to address abuse and restore balance within the community....
09/12/2024
Water damage is one of the most frequent and costly losses in co-ownership. However, many damages can be avoided thanks to preventive solutions. Their implementation is based on collaboration between the board of directors, managers and co-owners. Together, they can adopt effective strategies to reduce risks and protect buildings....
29/10/2024
Many websites today promote residential housing exchanges between owners, offering an attractive solution to maximize the use of one's property. Whether you are considering a reciprocal exchange with another owner or an exchange based on "hospitality points"—referred to as "GuestPoints" on some online platforms—it is essential to consider several legal aspects. Exchanging a residential property within a reciprocal framework is generally not considered a commercial activity, as long as certain rules are respected. Naturally, it all depends on the terms outlined in the declaration of co-ownership. However, a distinction must be made between the two most common types of exchanges, as their legal implications may differ. These options are detailed below...
01/10/2024
Recently, I was confronted with a situation that raises important questions regarding insurance in divided co-ownership. After a loss caused by torrential rains, a co-owner refused to allow the contractor designated by the insurer to intervene in their private portion, preferring to hire their own contractor. This case led me to reflect on several issues: Can the co-owner refuse the contractor proposed by the insurer or the syndicate of co-owners? What are the possible alternatives to ensure that the work is carried out properly and on time? What are the rights and obligations of the syndicate of co-owners in such a situation? These questions directly touch on the legal obligations and practices to be respected when carrying out repair work in co-ownership, and deserve to be explored in depth to fully understand everyone's rights and responsibilities....
10/09/2024
Managing a co-ownership involves many responsibilities, among which loss prevention is essential. Among the risks most feared by directors, co-owners, managers and insurers, water damage occupies a prominent place. Indeed, a water leak, if not detected in time, can cause considerable damage, both material and financial. In addition to repair costs, water damage can lead to interruptions in the daily lives of residents, disputes between the syndicate and the offending co-owners and a deterioration in the quality of life within the building. For these reasons, it is essential to implement effective preventive measures, among which early detection plays a key role....
30/08/2024
Compulsive hoarding disorder, also known as syllogomania or hoarding disorder, is characterized, according to a reference book published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), by an individual’s persistent difficulty in discarding or parting with their possessions, regardless of their actual value, due to an intense need to save them and the distress associated with the idea of discarding them. People suffering from this disorder may accumulate all sorts of items, ranging from common household objects to trash....
15/07/2024
Divided co-ownership offers numerous financial and practical advantages that make these properties an attractive option for many buyers, from their lower purchase price in comparison to a single-family home to their well-defined management framework. Are you one of these potential buyers? Would you like to learn more about the process of buying a co-ownership property? Here is some information you may find useful!...
02/07/2024
The decision to sell your divided co-ownership property is an important one, and being well prepared can make all the difference in the selling process. As a seller, it is essential to understand the steps that lead to a successful transaction. In this article, we will explore the key steps to go through when preparing to sell your co-ownership property, which will put you in the best position for a smooth transaction and peace of mind! ...
02/07/2024
In the world of co-ownership, managing and maintaining common portions represent a constant challenge for boards of directors. Among the most critical and costly elements is the rehabilitation of flat roofs. Choosing the right contractor for these works is a crucial decision that can heavily impact the co-ownership’s budget. Boards of directors often struggle to evaluate the skills and reliability of potential candidates. A poor selection can lead to additional costs and delays, exacerbating the initial problems and ultimately compromising the quality and longevity of the repairs....
05/06/2024
Even if it is tax-exempt, every syndicate of co-owners must submit an income tax return each year, both at the provincial and federal levels. This return must be filed within six months following the end of the fiscal year. A syndicate of co-owners must therefore complete the Non-Profit Organization Information Return using CO-17.SP form (at the provincial level) and the Corporate Income Tax Return using form T2 (at the federal level). It is important to note that failure to submit these returns within the prescribed deadlines can result in penalties....
02/06/2024
Imagine returning home after a heavy rainstorm, only to find water damage in the common portions. This scenario underscores the importance of properly maintained gutters. Gutters are an essential element for your co-ownership building, helping to protect it against climatic hazards. Without gutters, the building is exposed to water infiltration risks that can damage common areas and cause significant damage. A blocked gutter may sag, allowing water to infiltrate through the roof. If your gutters overflow, they no longer redirect water far enough from the building, thus overloading your foundation drain. Not to mention, your flower beds can also be damaged....
30/05/2024
A syndicate of co-ownership becomes an employer when it hires an employee under a work contract, whether verbal or written. A work contract exists when an employee performs work for remuneration under the direction or control of an employer (article 2085 of the Civil code of Quebec). This entails new legal responsibilities and obligations for the syndicate of co-ownership (SOC). Failure to comply with these obligations can result in significant legal and financial consequences. To ensure compliant and effective management of this new employment relationship, it is important to follow these step...
08/05/2024
Buying a co-ownership property is a big deal! It’s exciting to move into a new home and start making the place your own for your happily ever after. Unfortunately, this purchase can quickly turn into a nightmare if you discover a latent defect in the building after moving in. That’s why it’s important to take certain precautions before buying your co-ownership property. ...
06/05/2024
As the seller will want to receive the best possible price for their unit and the buyer will want to pay a fair purchase price, it is in the interest of both to know its fair market value. Establishing the market value of a co-ownership unit, however, is not a simple task and those buying or selling this type of property need to work with a qualified professional like a real estate broker....
04/05/2024
May 4, 2024 — Warm weather during the summer months can unfortunately coincide with aquatic tragedies that have fatal consequences. Warm seasons have been marked by tragic incidents in various aquatic environments. For instance, a high school student was found drowned in his school's pool. Additionally, a very young child met the same fate in a family pool. There was also a case of drowning in the indoor pool of a co-ownership. These events raise questions about whether these accidents were due to misfortune or negligence....
26/04/2024
Insurance is certainly one of the budget items that causes the most teeth-gritting. On one hand, it's generally quite expensive; on the other, it's something that ideally remains unused in the distant background. That said, condominium syndicate insurance is—legally—mandatory, so people choose it as a necessary evil. Fortunately, advertisers flood us with insurance ads, so syndicates will have plenty of choices! Not so fast... While it's true that there are countless insurance ads, it's also true that not all insured profiles are the same, and insurers don't address all types. Let's look at this....
23/04/2024
Law 122 was adopted in 2013, making facade inspection by an engineer or architect mandatory for certain types of buildings. Despite this, it is surprising to note that many building owners still seem to be unaware of these regulations, or even deliberately neglect them. Why is there still so much hesitation about this inspection which could prevent disasters? In this column, I will explain the importance of inspecting the facades of a building and the reasons given by certain co-owners to avoid having it carried out....
06/04/2024
Ensuring the longevity of a co-ownership building requires ongoing vigilance, especially when it comes to the maintenance and repair of common areas. These responsibilities, which fall to the board of directors, are crucial for the building's longevity. Among these, caulking holds a preeminent place. This delicate operation is vital for effectively countering recurrent water infiltration problems, thus ensuring the building's waterproofing and preserving its structural integrity. Therefore, rigorous maintenance is indispensable....
04/04/2024
April 4, 2024 — Public and private pools rely on proper water chemistry to function adequately, ensuring they are safe for swimmers. Chlorine is the main disinfectant used, which has faced criticism in recent years due to concerns about it being carcinogenic. These claims are unfounded when it is properly dosed. Complaints about excessive chlorine levels are common in shared properties, whether in a swimming pool or a hot tub. This leads to a chemical imbalance in the water, making chlorine extremely aggressive, not only causing irritation to the skin and eyes but also prematurely wearing out swimsuits. However, when used according to standards, chlorine is effective and does not cause inconvenience. To ensure this, regular analysis of chlorine as well as checking the pH, alkalinity, and water temperature is essential....
28/03/2024
Mon équipe et moi avons récemment été sollicités pour intervenir au sein de la copropriété Alouette*. En effet, cette copropriété s’était vu refuser son renouvellement d’assurance et avait besoin d’être redressée : une vraie catastrophe ! Rendus sur les lieux, on pouvait comprendre la décision de l’assureur : la négligence et le déficit d’entretien étaient assurément élevés. Dans cette chronique, je plongerai dans les détails des problématiques trouvées dans cette copropriété et proposerai un plan de match pour permettre à celle-ci de renouveler son assurance le plus rapidement possible. *Nom fictif pour garder l’anonymat de la copropriété concernée...
25/03/2024
For real estate transactions involving a divided co-ownership, one might assume that the parties only include the seller, the buyer, their respective real estate brokers and the notary who will finalize the transaction at the end of the process. However, the syndicate of co-owners also plays a key role in the transaction. By fulfilling their obligations, the board will allow the promisor to obtain all relevant information to make their decision, and the parties to the transaction can ensure that the promisor is able to give enlightened consent....
10/03/2024
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Quebec Sales Tax (QST) are collected in Quebec on the sale of most goods and services. The application of the Excise Tax Act (Part IX) and the Act respecting the Québec sales tax in respect of expenses incurred by a syndicate of co-owners and the contributions to common expenses it receives from co-owners is a very complex subject. Before registering for the GST and QST files, a syndicate of co-owners has every interest in consulting a tax professional. That said, the question remains: in what situation must a syndicate of co-owners charge GST and QST to a co-owner on his common expenses (condo fees)?...
26/02/2024
Life in a co-ownership has its advantages. First, the cost of buying a co-ownership unit is, on average, less than a single family home. With co-ownership, certain costs—such as maintenance or building repairs—can be divided among the co-owners....
17/02/2024
While policyholders often fear fire and theft, it's actually water that takes center stage in terms of the number of claims and damages to co-ownerships. While water is a source of life, it also supports the growth of spores, fungi, and mold. Unfortunately, these fungi, delightful in a sauce, are not edible when growing on walls and are even harmful to the health of occupants, and what's more, they are excluded from insurance policies. This exclusion poses a financial challenge for co-ownership associations, lacking insurance support for repairs....
12/02/2024
In compliance with its legal obligations to preserve the building, a syndicate of co-owners is frequently called upon to retain the services of contractors over the years to carry out, among other things, conversion work in the common portions. In this regard, the directors forming the board of directors of the syndicate have the obligation to act with prudence, honesty and loyalty and in the interest of the community of co-owners, in accordance with Article 322 of the Civil Code of Québec, when awarding a construction contract to one or more contractors. With this in mind, can directors contract with a contractor who offers the syndicate a competitive price in return for a cash payment "under the table", i.e., without paying or remitting the taxes usually payable? ...
11/02/2024
February 11, 2024 - Water infiltrations, often subtle and insidious, can persist for a long time before being detected. They sometimes manifest under very specific weather conditions, and it can take years before a new infiltration occurs, as all the factors came together at that moment for the water to seep in. Identifying and acting Infiltrations refer to the penetration of water into the structures of a building, such as walls and floors. If not addressed promptly, the consequences can escalate, leading to mold, unpleasant odors, wood degradation, corrosion of metal elements, and the bursting of coatings. It is crucial for co-owners and occupants of the co-0wnership to be aware that water infiltrations do not only manifest through visible damage after heavy rains. It is important to remain vigilant for less obvious signs that might indicate the presence of recurring infiltrations, even in small quantities....
17/12/2023
December 17, 2023 — In a judgment of the Court of Québec, the Honourable Louise Lévesque recalled the respective duties of a real estate broker and a notary during a transaction involving parking spaces in a divided co-ownership. First of all, it should be remembered that the legal status of parking spaces may differ from one co-ownership to another, depending on what the declaration of co-ownership (Constituting act of the co-ownership) provides. These vehicle parking spaces are either in the basement or outside a building, and a distinction must be made between spaces designated as private portions and those that may be characterized as common portions or common portions for restricted use....
11/12/2023
We are living in a paradoxical period, marked by the dazzling progress of computer technologies, the dematerialization of data, artificial intelligence, and their intrusion into all aspects of our lives. More than ever, people are posting on social networks and talking about their most recent outings, vacations or acquisitions, when not blabbering about their moods. Regardless, privacy remains a fundamental right that must be protected, sometimes against us....
02/12/2023
December 2, 2023- If the bailiff can only make purely material findings, excluding any opinion on the factual or legal consequences that may result, his finding must not appear in the eyes of some as a restriction. Indeed, the definition of the role of the bailiff is, on the contrary, the strength of his observation. This strength emerges from the relevance of the facts found. The importance of the finding remains linked to its usefulness, which is considerable. The bailiff's ascertainment is nothing more or less than a legal photograph that preserves the memory of the facts which, without this report, could fade over time....
30/11/2023
La Loi française « CLIMAT ET RESILIENCE » provoque un débat passionné parmi les professionnels immobiliers et le public concernés soit les propriétaires de logements d’habitation qui ne sont pas suffisamment isolés et vont être interdits de location ou d’augmentation de loyer tant que les travaux ne sont pas faits. Les transactions immobilières se bloquent. Les propriétaires cherchent à se débarrasser de leurs logements, mais attention ! ...
01/11/2023
L’acquisition d’une propriété constitue l’achat le plus important que nous aurons à effectuer au cours de notre vie. Au fil du temps, le marché immobilier s’est adapté aux modes de vie, aux désirs et aux aspirations des Québécois et Québécoises. En particulier, la création de la copropriété divise, en 1969, a grandement contribué à stimuler l’accès à la propriété. Au cours des cinquante dernières années, ce mode d’habitation s’est développé exponentiellement et il a su séduire des centaines de milliers de foyers. Ces projets d’habitation n’ont cessé de se multiplier sur le territoire québécois, résultat d’une économie prospère et d’un marché immobilier dynamique....
30/10/2023
Every step of a construction project is crucial to its success. The Square Cartier co-ownership, which has recently been the subject of a lot of media coverage, is the perfect example of a poorly planned construction project. Indeed, it seems that the preliminary phases of this project suffered from a lack of research and analysis, leading the co-ownership to the situation it is in today: uninsurable and drowning in claims. In this column, we'll analyze the elements that should have been considered during the initial stages of the project, while offering design ideas that could have prevented these problems....
21/10/2023
October 21, 2023- Buying or selling a condo requires a lot of planning. The dates of signing the transaction and taking possession are an integral part of it. Indeed, a delay in the scheduled date has logistical and monetary implications that can be significant for both buyers and sellers....
21/10/2023
October 21, 2023 Any co-owner may delegate his right to vote to an mandatary. Thus, with the notice calling the meeting containing agenda, financial statements and budget, there is usually a blank proxy form. However, since there is no requirement for the board to include one, it may be necessary for a co-owner to prepare one himself. A formidable tool at assemblies and an object of covetousness for many when a decisive vote is planned in the co-ownership. However, proxies and their validity are often the subject of unfortunate questions and attempts to counter them. What about it?...
15/10/2023
October 15, 2023- The Meeting of co-owners is a major event in the life of a co-ownership. A meeting at least once a year, it is decisive since it allows the making of major decisions that impact the lives and finances of the co-owners. The board of directors' mission is to take care of the convening and holding of the meeting of co-owners but also of the execution of the decisions it votes. Decisions taken have to appear clear and careful planning is required. It is also important to understand the rules that apply to it. ...
12/10/2023
Collectively, we owned the old Champlain Bridge. We neglected it for years, pumped money into it to keep it afloat in its final days, and eventually had to shell out more than 4 billion to cross the same shore, using the same access routes. Can we draw a parallel to co-ownership? While it may seem logical to think that low co-ownership fees are an advantage and high co-ownership fees are a disadvantage for a buyer or a long-term co-owner, think again because reality might be quite different....
10/10/2023
In their dealings with co-owners, board members must act with loyalty and fairness. They must refrain from any gesture that could amount to a settling of scores. This rule of conduct is fundamental and failure to comply with it constitutes a fault that may engage the liability of both the syndicate and the directors, personally. A judgment of the Court of Quebec sanctioned the abusive behaviour of members of the board of directors of a syndicate. ...
04/10/2023
4 octobre 2023- Existe-t-il un écart de valeur entre une copropriété divise et indivise ? Dans le cadre d’un mandat qui nous a été confié, nous avons procédé à une étude visant à déterminer s’il existe un écart potentiel, entre une valeur immobilière détenue en copropriété divise et l’autre en indivise, en regard à sa valeur marchande. Il s’agit ici d’un immeuble à vocation résidentiel de type logement....
01/10/2023
Quand une problématique survient dans votre habitation neuve, la première chose à faire est d’en informer votre entrepreneur afin que celui-ci intervienne. Toutefois, s’il n’effectue pas les travaux correctifs ou que ceux-ci ne sont pas à votre satisfaction, c’est à ce moment que vous pourrez ouvrir un dossier de réclamation chez GCR. Après analyse du dossier, une décision sera rendue en conciliation. Pour ce faire, GCR se base sur ce qui est prévu dans le Règlement du plan de garantie des bâtiments résidentiels neufs pour reconnaître ou non un élément soulevé par un consommateur....
01/10/2023
Conflicts in co-ownership often arise due to a lack of knowledge of the rules governing the building, but also due to a lack of communication or transparency, or because of a misunderstanding that has gone wrong. To ensure that co-ownership is synonymous with peace and peace of mind, it is best to adopt good habits from the beginning. The buyer of a condominium unit must therefore commit to accepting a very specific way of life, akin to a kind of micro-society. Condominiums have a bright future if social harmony is cultivated among all residents. To achieve this, crisis situations must be avoided or managed as well as possible....
13/09/2023
Fire was always a threat to humans until they were able to domesticate it about 600,000 years ago. The use of this precious tool was then one of the major elements of human evolution. Giant leap in time: If condominiums in Quebec have existed since 1969, their growth was more marked in the 80s. Since a co-ownership could indeed resemble a standard apartment, it was chosen, at the time, to decorate several of these units with wood-burning fireplaces. After all, the wood fireplace was, even until recently, a symbol of comfort, homecoming, luxury and even sensuality. Today, antics on a bearskin in front of a fireplace are no longer so popular. Still, the wood fireplace distinguished the condominium from the ordinary apartment. ...
01/09/2023
Vous avez acquis ou vous comptez acquérir un condo. Vous voyez alors passer des termes et expressions qui vous sont plus ou moins familiers. Nous allons tenter de démêler le tout afin que vous puissiez y voir plus clair....
22/08/2023
22 août 2023 - Un devoir fondamental d’assurer l’entretien et la conservation de l’immeuble s’impose aux administrateurs de tout syndicat de copropriété; c’est d’ailleurs là leur mission première. Il en découle l’obligation de pourvoir aux coûts engendrés par ces travaux. Voyons donc quelles sont les principales sources de financement des travaux en copropriété. ...
14/08/2023
The smoke clears, the air cools. The hot summer of 2023 will soon be behind us, and the boreal forest is not complaining. At the time of writing, an area a hundred times larger than the annual average in Quebec was devastated by the historic fires of the summer of 2023. Even though many people's vacations were quite wet, fires are still raging in many places in Quebec, Canada, and around the world....
05/08/2023
August 5, 2023 - Experience in building envelopes is a crucial factor, especially in the current context marked by the stringent requirements of the Building Chapter of the Safety Code (CBCS). Given the obligation for condominium associations to conduct periodic inspections, choosing a qualified professional becomes essential. This particularly resonates with my 35-year journey as an architect who has developed solid skills in this field. Despite my extensive experience, I remain humble and aware of the limits of my expertise, in contrast to some self-proclaimed "experts" whose overblown claims elicit a certain skepticism in me....
04/07/2023
No one on earth is now old enough to have experienced the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906, the oldest woman of humanity having been born in 1907. Nevertheless, this great earthquake has marked history, minds and ... insurance....
05/06/2023
In the case of a real estate transaction in a divided co-ownership, the certificate of location of the private portion is not always sufficient. A certified copy of the certificate of location of the entire building may also be requested. It is this certificate of location that will inform the buyer of the compliance of the overall property with respect to laws and regulations, encroachments, servitudes, as well as possible restrictions regarding the addition of a swimming pool, sheds, for example....
01/06/2023
Le Répertoire des entreprises accréditées chez GCR contient une foule d’informations afin d’aider les consommateurs à choisir leur entrepreneur et leur projet de construction d’une habitation neuve. Parmi les renseignements disponibles, il y a l’état de l’accréditation de l’entreprise. Mais quand celui-ci indique que l’accréditation est « inactive », qu’est-ce que ça implique? Nous allons tout vous expliquer dans ce texte....
31/05/2023
Devenir propriétaire est souvent une étape charnière dans la vie d’un ménage. Bien des choses doivent être prises en compte, et notamment lorsqu’il s’agit d’une copropriété neuve. Nous vous présentons dans ce texte cinq choses à savoir avant d’acquérir ce type de propriété....
28/04/2023
28 avril 2023 - Le cas de la copropriété Pimbina est une réelle catastrophe pour ses nombreux copropriétaires. Les nombreux problèmes de qualité des constructions résidentielles au Québec sont bien réels. Plusieurs acteurs de l’industrie voient depuis longtemps la fumée à l’horizon et s’époumonent à crier au feu, mais nos institutions semblent souffrir de cécité et de surdité. Au quotidien, nous aidons des copropriétés qui subissent les coûteuses conséquences de problèmes de qualité datant de la conception ou de la construction. À écouter les témoignages des représentants du syndicat de la copropriété Pimbina dans les médias, il semble bien probable que les problèmes touchant leur copropriété fassent partie de cette catégorie....
24/04/2023
24 avril 2023 - Jean-Marc est un entrepreneur qui s’est spécialisé dans la construction de petits immeubles en copropriété. Son entreprise est accréditée par Garantie de construction résidentielle (GCR) et il enregistre ses unités résidentielles au plan de garantie obligatoire, comme le prévoit la loi. Au cours de sa carrière, Jean-Marc a constaté que construire des petits immeubles en copropriété et d’assurer l’administration provisoire du syndicat de copropriété nécessite beaucoup de connaissances sur le plan légal, ce qui fait en sorte que vendre des condos s’avère souvent complexe. D’ailleurs, il a déjà été témoin de deux histoires tout à fait à l’opposé : une qui finit bien et une autre qui finit… moins bien....
16/04/2023
The life of the co-ownership is not only of interest to its owners and occupants, but also to their insurers. This is all the more true since it is known to all that condominium disasters are numerous: water leak, water damages, vandalism, fire, etc. Let's go back to the basics of property insurance. The Syndicate is required to take out insurance covering the common portions, the private portions (excluding improvements made to them) and movable property belonging to the syndicate. As for the improvements that have been made to the units, it is up to each co-owner to protect them with individual insurance, both those made by the previous owners and theirs. Finally, it is generally required (if only for the protection of co-owners) that tenants are also insured with respect to their movable property....
31/03/2023
31 mars 2023 - Vous êtes en processus d’achat d’une habitation neuve et vous ferez bientôt votre inspection préréception en compagnie de votre entrepreneur. Vous vous demandez si vous devriez être accompagné d’un professionnel du bâtiment neutre pour cette étape cruciale. Pour GCR, nul doute qu’il s’agit d’une sage décision à prendre....
18/03/2023
The agenda lists the questions to be voted on and the information and consultation items that will be addressed at the meeting of co-owners. The decision-making power of the meeting of co-owners is defined by the Civil Code of Québec and the declaration of co-ownership (Constitutive Act of Co-ownership). The chairman of the meeting of co-owners ensures that it runs smoothly and submits to the co-owners the proposals on which a vote must be taken. It must thus determine with respect to each item on the agenda who has the authority to decide. Its powers are set out in the building regulations....
13/03/2023
9 mars 2023 - Une des étapes importantes lors d’une transaction immobilière est évidemment l’inspection en bâtiment. Plusieurs personnes y ont intérêt mais aucune plus qu’un acheteur. Après l’inspection, l’acheteur reçoit le bilan de santé de l’immeuble qu’il projette d’acquérir. Regardons maintenant qui fait quoi et le cadre applicable....
30/01/2023
January 27, 2023 – In the summer of 2022, the Government of Quebec not only banned dual representation but since then also requires a broker who accompanies a buyer without a contract, to denounce him with more transparency that he does not represent him and that rather, he represents only the client with whom he is bound by a written contract. What does it mean ?...
15/12/2022
December 15th 2022 - When you wish to purchase a condominium unit, it is very important to obtain information not only on the private portion you would like to purchase, but also on the common portions, such as the foundation and the roof....
11/12/2022
For several years, it has been observed that the profession of “co-ownership manager,” referred to in QUEBEC as “co-ownership manager,” has not attracted new vocations, mainly among young people. Young or older individuals who choose this sector of activity are very rare in aspiring to the profession of real estate agent–co-ownership manager. Despite the efforts of schools responsible for basic training and of federations active in the sector, the number of co-ownership managers registered on the roll of the Professional Institute of Real Estate Agents (I.P.I.) has been steadily declining....
10/12/2022
December 10, 2012 - Proper governance of a co-ownsership building starts with diligent and thorough maintenance. Unfortunately, this responsibility is often overlooked by many co-ownership syndicates until the consequences of their procrastination result in exorbitant repair costs. History has shown that delaying necessary maintenance work only worsens and increases expenses exponentially. Neglecting preventive maintenance and regular inspections can lead to catastrophic failures, compromising the safety of residents and the value of their real estate investment....
05/12/2022
Si vous habitez, administrez ou gérez une copropriété possédant un stationnement souterrain, vous avez fort probablement entendu parler de la loi 122 (chapitre bâtiment du Code de sécurité) adoptée il y a quelques années. Une des dispositions de cette loi cible les parcs de stationnement étagés. Si votre stationnement possède une zone de roulement ne reposant pas au sol, la loi exige, entre autres choses, qu’une vérification approfondie soit faite tous les 5 ans par un ingénieur. La première vérification approfondie devant être réalisée de 12 et 18 mois suivant la fin de la construction....
22/11/2022
Every January or February, the manager, the accountant or the administrator of the co-ownership syndicate must complete, at the request of the co-owners concerned, the form TPZ-1029.MD.5-V for the tax credit for home support services for seniors. Completing this form requires an analysis of the accounting books to use only eligible expenses. This work can take a lot of time, depending on the volume of transactions of the condominium. It is tempting to charge the co-owner requesting this form a fair amount of professional fees for the production of the said document. Especially that in condominiums, the trend is according to the user-pays principle. Can we do it?...
21/11/2022
The accounting of the co-ownership is managed by the members of the board of directors or the manager designated by the latter. It is necessary for them to understand the rules of accounting in order to ensure the effective management of the syndicate of co-owners on a daily basis and measure its result in a reliable way. However, not all directors and co-owners are accountants by trade. It is therefore important that they understand the essentials concerning the accounting of their co-ownership. In practice, several accounting methods can be envisaged: each obeys a specific principle and often pursues a very particular purpose. There are two types of accounting: Cash basis of accounting and Accrual basis of accounting....
21/11/2022
November 21, 2022 - The management of a co-ownership requires a long-term vision that not only takes into account immediate needs but also the future implications of maintenance and renovation decisions. A strategic approach involves regularly evaluating the condition of the building and planning necessary interventions before problems become critical. In one of my columns, I highlighted a troubling issue affecting many co-ownerships in Quebec: the lack of maintenance of the real estate heritage. This alarming situation turns some buildings into real threats to the safety of their occupants. It is crucial to reverse this trend of negligence and adopt a proactive maintenance culture....
14/11/2022
Marseille (Région Provence Côte d’Azur), le 5 novembre 2018 à 9h du matin : L’immeuble en copropriété 65 rue d’Aubagne s’effondre entrainant avec lui la chute de l’immeuble voisin appartement à la Ville. 8 morts sont à déplorer. L’information judiciaire pour « homicides involontaires aggravés et violation d’une obligation de prudence ou de sécurité » a permis de comprendre que l’effondrement a été provoqué par la rupture d’un poteau supportant le plancher du rez-de-chaussée de la copropriété qui n’était pas entretenue correctement. Lille (Région Nord pas de Calais), le 12 novembre 2022 : 1 mort dans l’effondrement de deux immeubles anciens. La nuit précédant le drame, un locataire de l'un des immeubles avait donné l'alerte, permettant l'évacuation des habitants. Un médecin de Calais, qui s'était fait prêter l'appartment dans un bâtiment adjacent, a été retrouvé mort dans les décombres. Ouverture d’une enquête judiciaire sur les causes et les responsabilités des copropriétaires et de la Mairie qui n’aurait pas pris assez à temps un Arrêté de péril et d’interdiction d’habiter, vu l’instabilité du bâtiment....
18/10/2022
18 octobre 2022 - En furetant sur les sites de propriétés à vendre, vous trouvez la copropriété de vos rêves et vous ne voulez pas manquer votre chance? Prenez tout de même le temps de bien faire les choses. ...
14/08/2022
14 août 2022 - Le phénomène du harcèlement psychologique en milieu travail est de plus en plus rapporté et médiatisé. Il se manifeste sous plusieurs formes et ce par des comportements intimidants, vexants et inopportuns. Ce fléau de la société est combattu, partout où il sévit. Nul ne peut se réfugier derrière un quelconque statut juridique, y compris celui de la copropriété. Un syndicat de copropriétaires, en tant qu’employeur, doit prendre les moyens raisonnables pour prévenir toute forme de harcèlement psychologique parmi ses employés et, lorsqu’une telle conduite est portée à sa connaissance, pour la faire cesser....
09/08/2022
May 3, 2022- The duty of maintenance and conservation of the building that falls to the administrators of a co-ownership involves one day doing business with construction contractors. Whether it is to replace the roof, renovate the entrance hall or repair brick siding and masonry, it is important to be vigilant when awarding such contracts, given their often very high costs. As agents of the syndicate, directors must act with caution, in order to protect the interests of the community of co-owners. This translates into various rules that should be followed, especially when the work is important: ...
09/08/2022
September 8th 2015 – In the election campaign, the Chief Electoral Officer of Québec reminded the population of the candidates’ rights to access private units. Whoever prevents a candidate from entering the premises of a private unit can be subjected to a fine of $5,000 or an imprisonment sentence of a maximum of 6 months, or both. The syndicate of co-owners are especially targeted since ‟apartments or condos” fall under this umbrella....
09/08/2022
The search for a good condo manager is like the quest for a good wine! Should you try several before finding the right one? At the risk of having stomach disorders. Or rather, it is necessary to know before the search for the right nectar the quality criteria that are flexibility, intensity, clarity ... Well, let's go! Let's do like the tasters and look for the best qualities in French co-ownership manager (syndic), Quebecois co-ownership manager and why not elsewhere? Even in China because there are also Chinese co-ownership facing the same problem of quality research of the manager! Here are the quality criteria of the syndic of co-ownership as they are seen on the side of France: ...
09/08/2022
December 14th 2015 - Besides seeing to the respect of the declaration of co-ownership, you as directors of a condominium must ensure the maintenance and conservation of the building. It is your uppermost duty and the majority of your tasks ensue from this fundamental obligation....
09/08/2022
January 27th, 2016. Among the various obligations imposed upon each and every Syndicate of co-ownership, there is a particular one worthy of note. It is the obligation to keep the list of the Syndicate’s co-owners and the books and registers necessary for the proper functioning of the Syndicate. This is easily understandable, since the Syndicate, as a moral person distinct from its members, has its own “corporate life” which must be properly documented. The Code also tells us that these documents are the Syndicate’s property and that the co-owners have access to them (Article 342 of the Quebec Civil Code)....
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09/08/2022
December 23, 2021- As an employer, a syndicate of co-ownership has a right of management with respect to its employees, that is to say the right to direct them. This right of management must, however, be exercised in compliance with employment rules. It starts in the hiring process Leading staff is much more than just assigning tasks to the employee. A good employer/employee relationship is created from the hiring process. Experience and job references are important points to consider, as well as the motivation, skills and background of the candidate, in order to select well. This step should not be overlooked....
09/08/2022
Your co-ownership is exposed to various risks, as an example, fires, water damages, theft and acts of vandalism, which are required to be insured against. When a loss occurs, the insurance of a co-ownership covers the building as well as the general liability of the syndicate of co-owners. For the syndicate, subscribing to this type of insurance is mandatory. The law and most Acts of co‑ownership require it. The insurance contract specifies the coverages offered, as well coverage limits and exclusions, in addition to the deductible amounts....
09/08/2022
October 3, 2021 - When it comes to determining the insurance premium based on the insurance value of a building (for insurance purposes), the broker or insurer will require his client to provide the cost of "reconstruction". Indeed, this premium is established according to the risks which are attributable to the building and the premises, but also according to the cost of reconstruction. We obviously understand that after a disaster we have to rebuild the damaged places, but the concept goes far beyond reconstruction. Indeed, the cost of reconstruction is impacted by contingencies and difficulties in restoring the inventory to its original condition. Think for example of the work involved in replacing a broken ceramic tile, on the wall or the floor, it goes without saying that this also involves the replacement of other tiles around, damaged by the work. ...
02/08/2022
2 août 2022 - Acteurs importants dans plusieurs copropriétés, les employés d’un syndicat de copropriétaires en assurent le bon fonctionnement en exécutant divers services attendus par les résidents. Le syndicat est ainsi « l’employeur », il est donc responsable de la sécurité et de la santé du salarié. Or, la Loi sur les normes du travail prévoit que tout employé a droit à un environnement de travail exempt de toute forme de harcèlement. Aussi, par exemple, en cas de litige du fait d’un copropriétaire qui exercerait une pression régulière sur le concierge ou le portier, le syndicat doit prendre les mesures qui s’imposent. Si l'employé porte plainte pour harcèlement, la responsabilité de la copropriété pourrait être engagée du fait des agissements d’un de ses membres....
16/06/2022
June 16, 2022 – The presence of mold in an apartment is not to be taken lightly. These microscopic fungi, in addition to causing aesthetic damage to surfaces, can significantly impact air quality and, consequently, the health of residents. In divided co-ownership, where the proximity of living spaces increases the risk of spread, heightened vigilance is required....
15/06/2022
15 juin 2022- Le constat d'huissier se révèle être un outil inestimable, garantissant une impartialité et une précision inégalées dans la documentation des faits. Cette démarche méticuleuse et rigoureusement définie assure non seulement la légitimité et la fiabilité des constatations réalisées par les huissiers mais contribue également à la protection des droits et à l'administration équitable de la justice. Dans le cadre d'un constat d'huissier de justice, quelles règles s'appliquent pour les lieux et heures de constatation?...
07/06/2022
June 7, 2022 - The main duty of the board of directors in a condominium is to manage the Syndicate’s business. This means first to ensure the maintenance and conservation of the building, secondly to see to it that everyone respects every disposition of the declaration of co-ownership....
18/05/2022
May 18, 2022 – In many co-ownerships, the creation of common spaces in the form of rooftop terraces on underground parkings enhances the collective living space. These rooftop terraces, considered essential components of modern architecture, present various maintenance challenges. While offering numerous benefits, they can be the source of structural problems requiring significant repair and maintenance interventions. When signs of deterioration appear, it is crucial to act quickly to avoid potential more serious damage. ...
18/04/2022
April 18, 2022 - Since their boom in the 1980s, co-ownership residences have grown increasingly popular. However, with a useful life cycle of about twenty years for many of their components, a notable deterioration of the building envelope has been observed for over a decade. This degradation is often attributable to a lack of rigor in maintenance programs, leading to premature wear of structural elements without administrators and managers being able to anticipate and prepare the necessary interventions....
17/04/2022
For nearly 30 years now, the profession of co-ownership manager (referred to in your jurisdiction as a co-ownership manager) has enjoyed legal recognition in Belgium. Integrated into the activities of a real estate agent, the co-ownership manager must be registered with the Professional Institute of Real Estate Agents (I.P.I.), a public body and true “watchdog of the profession.” These columns, presented in a question-and-answer format, will address this Belgian particularity, which is very rare in Europe and around the world....
10/04/2022
April 10, 2022 - Finally, the good weather is here! The frenzy of spring cleaning and the call of floral beauty capture us all as soon as Mother Nature graces us with her mercy after a long winter. This period of renewal is especially significant in the condominium aspect, where the maintenance and landscaping of common areas are of utmost importance. We will share with you some aspects of landscaping that can impact the components of your building's envelope, causing collateral damage in the short and medium term, while highlighting the specifics related to co-ownership management and maintenance....
01/03/2022
In theory, your co-ownership doesn't necessarily need a Chartered Professional Accountant to present its financial information, whether it's financial statements, financial forecasts or financing applications. Competent administrators or a manager could do the work and present the required financial information well. However, the need may arise if the co-owners have doubts about the work, skills or honesty of the board members. The internal reports submitted to the co-owners may also be absent or deficient....
21/02/2022
February 22, 2022 - The archives of a co-ownership are a set of documents kept being able to manage the building, prove rights or testify to certain activities. I am sometimes asked for how long documents filed in the co-ownership register should be kept by the syndicate. This is a fair question, since the legislator has given no explicit directions on this subject in the Civil Code. It could be that its silence means, "You must keep everything, permanently !” As far as I am concerned, I rather lean in that direction....
17/11/2021
November 18, 2021- When it comes to hiring labour in a co-ownership, many directors think that it would be simpler and less expensive if it were provided by contract that the janitor, for example, would be considered a "self-employed". By doing so, it would not be appropriate to deduct deductions for tax purposes, or contributions to Employment Insurance or the Québec Pension Plan (QPP) at source. In addition, it is believed that this avoids red tape and contributions to the Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST). In short, it costs less and everyone is happy......
05/11/2021
November 10, 2021 - It's well known, Covid has been blamed for a lot. Your favorite restaurant is now closed three days a week? It's because of Covid. There's a two-hour wait to talk to a representative at a call center? It's because of Covid. Is there a chlorine shortage for the pool? It's Covid's fault. Hurry up and buy your winter tires, Christmas toys, and storage cabinet because all of this might soon be in short supply because of... Covid! And what does your condo have to do with all this? Well, know that whether made of wood or concrete, tall or long, no condo will be able to avoid Covid......
03/11/2021
November 3, 2021— It is clear that confusion still persists today with the concepts of market value and insurance value. Indeed, many people and stakeholders in the real estate field do not distinguish between these two values, as well as between the concepts of replacement cost and reproduction cost, or even between the cost of new construction and the cost of reconstruction. But, first of all, how to distinguish the market value from the insurance value? Let us try here to disentangle all that. ...
22/08/2021
A syndicate of co-owners has the obligation to account for its operations by funds. The Civil Code of Québec requires the creation of a general fund, a contingency fund and in April 2022, the creation of the self-insurance fund. The creation of the early self-insurance fund is recommended. The general fund for current operations is also sometimes referred to as an administration fund or an administration fund....
31/07/2021
December 31, 2022 – Co-ownership law is in full swing and is currently undergoing a major reform. But what about tacit modifications to the declaration of co-ownership and the building's by-laws? For example, if a co-owner has been using unused space in the garage for more than ten years to store their personal belongings, is he or she allowed to use it indefinitely? Will the person who will eventually purchase their unit also be able to use this space to store their belongings? ...
29/06/2021
29 juin 2021- Les travaux du Congrès de Varsovie, de l'Union internationale des huissiers de justice et officiers judiciaires, ont révélé des découvertes fascinantes relatives à l'histoire du constat. Ces recherches ont mis en lumière l'existence d'ancêtres de cette pratique remontant au XIVe siècle, avec une mention spéciale du 13 février 1342, identifiée comme la date du premier constat officiel dans l'histoire des anciens parlements. Cette révélation marque le début d'une longue lignée de pratiques diversifiées en matière de constats....
25/05/2021
25 mai 2021 - La question du mois apparaissant à la page d’accueil du site Condolegal.com m’a inspiré cette chronique....
09/05/2021
Each syndicate of co-owners has a declaration of co-ownership, which, in principle, should be a veritable bedside book for both the co-owners and the members of the board of directors. However, the declaration of co-ownership is a document that may seem inaccessible at first glance for the latter. This problem can sometimes be increased, when it was more or less well written, more or less long ago. This is not to mention the confusing clauses, which create difficulties of interpretation and even clauses contrary to the legislation that evolved after its publication....
05/03/2021
5 mars 2021 — Dans cette deuxième partie de ma chronique qui traite des gestionnaires de copropriété, je parlerai d’autres facettes propres à leur relation avec un syndicat de copropriétaires. Dans mon texte précédent, j’ai mentionné qu’une firme de gestion passe en moyenne trois ans dans une copropriété. Pourquoi? Bien souvent parce qu’après quelques années, les membres d’un CA quittent et d’autres prennent la relève. Or, les nouveaux arrivants peuvent être enclins à critiquer la façon dont leurs prédécesseurs ont fait les choses, ce qui éclabousse un gestionnaire par la bande. Cette insatisfaction est bien souvent annonciatrice d’un non-renouvellement de contrat....
05/02/2021
1er février 2021 — Recourir aux services d’un gestionnaire de copropriété est une décision importante. Le mandataire doit être choisi avec doigté. Malheureusement, certains syndicats de copropriétaires éprouvent des difficultés à sélectionner les bons candidats. À l’inverse, certains gestionnaires ne savent pas dans quoi ils s’embarquent en acceptant un mandat, si bien que les mauvaises surprises peuvent miner la relation d’affaires entre eux....
01/12/2020
1er décembre 2020 - La plupart des locataires qui vivent en copropriété ont la bonne attitude. Néanmoins, une minorité d’entre eux ne respecte pas le règlement de l’immeuble. Si tel est le cas, les administrateurs doivent intervenir, afin d’amener ces locataires à en respecter le contenu. Ne pas le faire risque d’engendrer un climat délétère au sein d’une copropriété, ce qui pourrait entraîner des conséquences fâcheuses que personne ne souhaite. En d’autres termes, il ne faut pas laisser les locataires faire n’importe quoi, autrement ils finiront par imposer leur loi....
19/07/2020
2 mars 2023 - Afflicted with a health issue, you want to move to an apartment closer to your daughter, which is fitting, given that a unit in her condo building is for sale. However, this unit is rented. During a visit to the premises, the tenant informs you that he has no intention of leaving, claiming a right to stay there for life. At least, for as long as he wants to. On the other hand, the seller tells you that the tenant will have to leave the unit upon receiving a notice of repossession. Intrigued by the tenant's statement, you take time to interview several people to verify this "lease for a lifetime" matter. The answers provided reassure you: if it is sent six months before the planned repossession date, the notice of repossession should allow you to take back the apartment. ...
11/06/2020
11 juin 2020- L'huissier de justice, en sa qualité d'officier de justice, représente un allié important et efficace pour l’ensemble des copropriétaires, gestionnaires et syndicats de copropriété. Son intervention peut être sollicitée pour établir des constats sur diverses situations ou encore pour la perception des charges communes impayées, consolidant ainsi la bonne gestion et l'harmonie au sein des résidences. Les prérogatives de l'huissier de justice, ancrées dans le Code de procédure civile et la Loi sur les huissiers de justice, lui confèrent une autorité légale pour agir avec efficience et justesse, assurant un équilibre indispensable entre les parties concernées. En outre, sa connaissance approfondie des procédures judiciaires font de lui un allié précieux, capable de naviguer à travers les complexités légales pour le bien-être de la communauté....
03/04/2020
3 avril 2020 - Le législateur québécois n’avait pas une situation de pandémie en tête, lorsqu’il a adopté la Loi sur la santé et la sécurité du travail et la Loi sur les normes du travail. Il y a néanmoins prévu certains principes et règles pour guider les employeurs....
22/03/2020
The obligation of the syndicate of co-ownership to maintain common portions, especially those with limited use such as balconies, skylights, and other common portions, has been the subject of much discussion since 1994. In this regard, article 1039 of the Civil Code of Quebec provides that the community of co-owners constitutes, as soon as the declaration of co-ownership is published, a legal person whose purpose is the conservation of the building and the maintenance and administration of the common portions....
10/12/2019
Cette chronique vous est proposée par Garantie de construction résidentielle 10 décembre 2019 — Garantie de construction résidentielle (GCR) publiera dorénavant des chroniques sur Condolegal.com, afin d’aider les consommateurs à poser les bons gestes lorsqu’ils achètent un condo. Le premier sujet traitera de l’avis de fin des travaux des parties communes. Il s’agit d’une étape extrêmement importante, car elle coïncide avec le démarrage de certains volets propres à la garantie de GCR....
02/11/2018
2 novembre 2018 - Encore de nouvelles obligations pour les syndicats de copropriétaires, dites-vous? Eh bien, oui!, si vous avez des employés. Mais si ça peut vous rassurer, ces nouvelles obligations s’adressent aussi à tous les employeurs québécois, sans exception…...
22/08/2018
22 août 2018 - La décriminalisation de la marijuana, en octobre 2018, est encore un sujet de controverse dans nombre de copropriétés québécoises. Elle oppose les copropriétaires favorables à cette mesure à ceux qui s’y objectent farouchement, notamment en raison de la propagation d’odeurs et des dangers inhérents à la fumée secondaire. ...
30/07/2018
Le phénomène AirBnB a gagné en popularité au Québec, transformant la manière dont les logements en copropriété sont loués à court terme grâce à cette plateforme conviviale et accessible. Toutefois, il faut savoir que certaines déclarations de copropriété imposent des restrictions claires, voire interdisent totalement ce type de location, dans le but de préserver la tranquillité et la sécurité des résidents. Malgré ces directives, certains copropriétaires, que ce soit par méconnaissance ou délibérément, ne respectent pas ces règles et mettent en pratique la mentalité « je suis chez moi et je fais ce que je veux »....
19/12/2017
The statement of financial position, commonly referred to as the balance sheet, presents the financial situation of the syndicate of co-owners at a specific date. It provides an overview of the assets (what the syndicate owns), the liabilities (what it owes), and the net assets. Unlike other financial statements, which report on activities over an entire fiscal year, the balance sheet offers a snapshot of the syndicate’s financial health at a given point in time. For co-owners, directors, and condo managers, it is an essential tool for assessing the syndicate’s ability to meet its obligations and for properly planning the management of the building....
09/04/2017
10 avril 2017 - L’entrée en vigueur du nouveau Code civil du Québec en 1994 a divisé le contenu de la déclaration de copropriété en trois sections. Effectivement, on retrouve l’acte constitutif en première partie, le règlement en deuxième partie et l’état descriptif en troisième partie....
10/01/2017
11 janvier 2017 - Le respect des dispositions de la déclaration de copropriété est et demeure obligatoire pour tous les copropriétaires et locataires (si ces derniers ont obtenu copie du règlement de l’immeuble). Même si les acheteurs d’unité de condominium sont de plus en plus informés sur la copropriété, il n’en demeure pas moins que plusieurs d’entre eux, nouveaux ou anciens, se disent « je suis chez nous et je fais ce que je veux »....
05/01/2017
The statement of earnings is essential for performance assessment and informed decision-making. This statement is expressly required by the article 1087 of the Civil Code of Québec. It states that the income statement, in addition to the balance sheet, the budget and the statement of debts and claims, must accompany the notice of the annual meeting....
17/11/2016
17 novembre 2016 - L’huissier de justice est souvent mandaté afin d’assister à une assemblée générale annuelle et/ou spéciale. Toutefois, pour ce faire, il doit être porteur d’une procuration valide reçue d’un copropriétaire. Cette procuration doit lui permette d’assister à la dite assemblée ou toutes autres assemblées ultérieures si cette dernière est suspendue ou remise à des dates ultérieures, car très souvent les copropriétaires et/ou membres du conseil d’administration peuvent demander à l’huissier de quitter les lieux....
28/03/2016
28 mars 2016 - Tout syndicat de copropriété doit constituer et maintenir des registres, en plus d’en permettre la consultation par les copropriétaires. Or, cet accès aux registres ne s’effectue pas toujours de façon harmonieuse. D’une part, il y a des copropriétaires suspicieux qui multiplient les demandes de consultation des registres, croyant y trouver une preuve de malversation de la part des administrateurs. D’autre part, ce sont parfois les administrateurs qui agissent en roitelets et refusent l’accès aux registres à un copropriétaire. Où se trouve le juste milieu ? ...
27/01/2016
27 janvier 2016 - Parmi les obligations imposées à tout syndicat de copropriété, on retrouve celles concernant la conservation et la tenue à jour des registres du syndicat, ainsi que leur accès qu’il faut assurer aux copropriétaires. En effet, le Code Civil du Québec prévoit spécifiquement que le conseil d’administration de toute personne morale – dont un syndicat de copropriété – tient la liste de ses membres, ainsi que les livres et registres nécessaires à son bon fonctionnement. Il est précisé que ces documents sont la propriété de la personne morale et que ses membres, i.e. les copropriétaires, y ont accès (article 342 C.c.Q.)....
12/01/2016
12 janvier 2015 - Le Code du Québec, demande de ventiler les logements selon certaines normes. Ceci implique d’évacuer de l’air continuellement à l’extérieur, le plus souvent par les ventilateurs de salles de bain. Mais cela implique aussi d’introduire mécaniquement de l’air de remplacement en quantité égale. Cela peut se faire de deux façons, par un système individuel dans chaque logement ou par un système d’alimentation d’air central au toit, distribuant l’air dans les logements....
05/08/2015
5 août 2015 - Dans une chronique antérieure (25 octobre 2010) intitulée « Volets coupe-fumée », nous avons parlé de l’interprétation obligatoire de la Régie du Bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) des codes applicables et normes en date du Code National du Bâtiment 1995, avec modifications pour le Québec (CNB-95)....
27/07/2015
27 juillet 2015 - Il n’est pas rare d’entendre des administrateurs de copropriété souligner le manque d’intérêt des copropriétaires quant aux affaires de leur syndicat. Cela se traduit parfois en une faible participation aux assemblées de copropriétaires, occasionnant son annulation et report, faute de quorum, ou l’impossibilité d’atteindre le pourcentage de votes requis pour prendre certaines décisions importantes, en vertu du Code civil du Québec....
16/04/2015
16 avril 2015 - Faire l’achat d’une unité de condominium nécessite un minimum de précautions de la part d’un éventuel acheteur. Et parmi celles-ci, celui de faire la lecture adéquate de la déclaration de copropriété. Une fois cette lecture accomplie et une fois l’achat de l’unité effectué, vous adhérer aux dispositions de la déclaration de copropriété y compris ses règlements et la destination de l’immeuble....
10/12/2014
10 décembre 2014 - C’est déjà la fin de l’année, la période des « partys de Noël » et autres sorties organisées pour vos employés. Or, sachez qu’en tant qu’employeur, les responsabilités d’un syndicat de copropriété ne disparaissent pas, même en de telles occasions. Vous pourriez devoir assumer les coûts d’indemnisation d’un accident de travail survenu pendant ces activités festives, tout comme vous pourriez devoir sanctionner des comportements inacceptables ou répréhensibles. ...
09/09/2014
9 septembre 2014 - Le locataire doit respecter les dispositions de la déclaration de copropriété. En effet, l’article 1057 du Code civil du Québec, se lit comme suit : «Article 1057 – Le règlement de l’immeuble est opposable au locataire ou à l’occupant d’une partie privative, dès qu’un exemplaire du règlement ou des modifications qui lui sont apportées lui est remis par le copropriétaire ou, à défaut, par le syndicat.»...
24/06/2014
24 juin 2014 - Dans une précédente chronique, j'énumérais un certain nombre de règles à suivre lors de l'octroi de contrats de construction. En tant que mandataire d'un syndicat de copropriété, tout administrateur se doit en effet d'agir de façon prudente, dans l'intérêt de la collectivité des copropriétaires....
19/11/2013
20 novembre 2013- La présente chronique suit la chronique précédente intitulée «Rétention d'eau pluviale». Il s'agit selon les normes d'une municipalité de retenir obligatoirement de l'eau de pluie de façon à ne pas fournir un débit d'eau par minute et par mètre carré plus élevé que celui permis par la municipalité....
08/04/2013
8 avril 2013 - Pour remplir sa mission d’entretien de l’immeuble, un syndicat de copropriété va parfois procéder à l’embauche de concierges, surveillants, commis à l’administration. Ces employés disposent des mêmes droits que tout autre salarié, dont le droit à des conditions de travail ne mettant pas en danger leur santé, sécurité ou dignité....
12/02/2013
14 février 2013- Les dispositions de l’article 1063 Code civil du Québec sont très claires : «Chaque copropriétaire dispose de sa fraction; il use et jouit librement de sa partie privative et des parties communes, à la condition de respecter le règlement de l'immeuble et de ne porter atteinte ni aux droits des autres copropriétaires ni à la destination de l'immeuble.»...
01/11/2012
1er novembre 2012 - Beaucoup de récents bâtiments en condominiums ont des sorties d'air sous les balcons. Dans une chronique antérieure (29 novembre 2010) nous avons expliqué un système de ventilation efficace et usuel en évacuant l'air au toit et en alimentant les logements centralement par de l'air de remplacement préchauffé et parfois climatisé....
09/10/2012
9 octobre 2012- Beaucoup de gens se plaignent d'inconfort thermique dans les logements de diverses façons....
28/11/2010
29 novembre 2010- Dans une chronique antérieure, nous avons parlé de l’équilibre requis entre l’alimentation d’air et l’évacuation d’air, afin de ne pas créer une pression positive dans les logements et engendrer de la condensation dans les murs en hiver ni une pression négative qui accentue l’infiltration aux portes et fenêtres. Mais comment calcule-t-on la quantité d’air à équilibrer ?...
29/10/2010
29 octobre 2010- Les dalles de béton surmontant les garages sont souvent recouvertes de terrasses, de voies piétonnières et de voies de circulation pour automobiles, ou encore de parcs dotés d’aménagement paysager. Le principal défi, à propos des dalles de béton séparant le garage du terrain, concerne le maintien du complexe d’étanchéité abritant le garage....
25/10/2010
25 octobre 2010- Il est connu que les conduits et les grilles dans les cloisons coupe-feu doivent être munis d’un volet coupe-feu opérant avec un fusible. Mais il existe aussi un volet combiné coupe-feu et coupe-fumée. Ce volet a la double fonction de retarder la propagation du feu et aussi d’empêcher le transfert de fumée d’un côté d’une cloison à l’autre....
09/09/2010
9 septembre 2010- Voici notre 3ème chronique sur la Régie du Bâtiment du Québec, souvent appelée « La RBQ » dans le milieu de la construction. Elle a pour mission d’administrer et de faire appliquer plusieurs lois et règlements de la Province de Québec dans le bâtiment en général, et dans les logements en condominium en particulier....
13/08/2010
13 août 2010- Voici notre 2ème chronique sur la Régie du Bâtiment du Québec, souvent appelée « La RBQ » dans le milieu de la Construction. Elle a comme mission d’administrer et de faire appliquer plusieurs lois et règlements de la Province de Québec dans le bâtiment en général mais aussi dans les logements en condominium :...
29/06/2010
29 juin 2010- Nous débutons une série de quelques chroniques sur La Régie du Bâtiment (ci-après : La Régie) pour expliquer quelle est sa fonction au sujet de la construction, mais plus particulièrement en regard des logements en condominium. En introduction, nous citons les extraits les plus importants pris sur le site internet de la Régie du Bâtiment....
31/05/2010
31 mai 2010- Un des inconvénients de vivre en condo est la trop fréquente propagation d’odeurs dans les corridors et pire encore dans les logements. Ces odeurs se propagent avec une circulation d’air dans le bâtiment par des ouvertures (même très petites) dont les principales sont :...
18/05/2010
18 mai 2010- Les vitrages isolants sont constitués de deux panneaux de verre consécutifs espacés normalement de 12mm. Cet espacement est obtenu par un intercalaire constitué d’un tube creux en aluminium. L’espace entre les deux panneaux de verre contient souvent de l’air, mais peut également contenir des gaz comme l’argon, le krypton, le dioxyde de carbone ou encore l’hexafluorure de soufre....
11/05/2010
11 mai 2010- L’intégrité des joints de scellement assure en grande partie l’efficacité de l’interface fenêtre-mur. Le vieillissement des joints de scellement dépend de la forme du joint, de son niveau d’exposition aux rayons solaires, et de la fréquence des élongations des matériaux de scellement....
10/05/2010
10 mai 2010- Pour tous les types de bâtiments, la Ville de Montréal (depuis 2001) et certaines autres villes au Québec exigent que l’apport d’eau pluviale d’une surface étanche de terrain et de toiture ne déverse pas plus qu’un débit d’eau fixé par la Ville afin de ne pas surcharger leurs réseaux d’égout (le présent article ne parle que de la Ville de Montréal)....
12/04/2010
12 avril 2010- Le remplacement des fenêtres est une dépense importante pour les copropriétés. Lors du remplacement, il est important de sélectionner le produit le plus durable et le plus performant possible....
31/03/2010
31 mars 2010- Dans les logements en condominium, on entend souvent des plaintes sur l’infiltration d’air aux portes, fenêtres et même les prises de courant, causant un inconfort désagréable en hiver. Une première cause est souvent une mauvaise étanchéité au pourtour des fenêtres et des portes-patio et parfois les fenêtres et portes elles-mêmes....
