Adopted in December 2019, Bill 16 introduced major reforms to condominium management in Quebec. The new legislation aimed to tackle issues faced by co-owners and syndicates, emphasizing improved governance, financial planning, and building maintenance. Although certain provisions came into effect in January 2020, the rollout of other key measures was postponed, awaiting the adoption of necessary regulations.
On September 11, 2024, a draft regulation was introduced to address existing gaps. The proposal outlines updated guidelines aimed at improving transparency, financial management, and the upkeep of shared condominium areas. These changes are designed to provide a stronger framework, enabling syndicates to better meet their obligations and protect the value of co-owners’ investments.
What the new regulation will bring
The draft regulation published on September 11, 2024, expands on existing measures with more detailed requirements and standards.
- Professional development of maintenance logs: Only qualified professionals, such as members of the Quebec Order of Engineers or the Quebec Order of Chartered Appraisers, will be permitted to create maintenance logs to ensure their reliability and accuracy.
- Detailed content requirements: Maintenance logs must include a comprehensive inventory of common areas, descriptions of materials and equipment, and a schedule for upcoming maintenance tasks.
- Regular updates and reviews: Maintenance logs are required to be updated annually and undergo a thorough review every five years to reflect the building’s actual condition.
- Syndicate certificate for unit sales: The regulation outlines the specific details that must be included in certificates provided during unit sales, improving transparency for buyers.
Initial changes introduced by Bill 16
Since January 2020, Bill 16 has introduced measures to address these challenges, though their full implementation is still ongoing.
- Mandatory building maintenance handbook for condominiums: This document, which must be regularly updated, helps track completed maintenance and plan for future tasks, promoting proactive building management.
- Reserve fund study: Condominium syndicates are now required to regularly evaluate the funds needed for repairs and replacements in common areas, ensuring they are financially prepared.
- Syndicate certificate for unit sales: Provided during property transactions, this certificate details the building’s condition and the financial status of the condominium, offering better protection for buyers.
While these measures have improved transparency and planning in condominium management, some aspects remain difficult to fully implement.
Before bill 16: Inefficient management of condominiums
Before the adoption of Bill 16, condominium management in Quebec faced numerous challenges that affected both co-owners and their properties. One major issue was inadequate planning for maintenance and major repairs, resulting in delays and accelerated wear on critical systems such as roofs, elevators, and HVAC units. These shortcomings frequently led to expensive emergency repairs, driving up costs and adversely impacting living conditions in condominiums.
Another significant challenge was financial planning, as many syndicates were unprepared for the costs of future repairs, leading to insufficient reserve funds. This often forced the implementation of special assessments, placing unexpected financial burdens on co-owners and causing tension within the community. Additionally, governance practices were inconsistent, with inadequate record-keeping and a lack of transparency eroding trust between co-owners and syndicate boards, further complicating management efforts.
How Genispec can help
Meeting these new requirements can be challenging, but Genispec provides the expertise and support needed to help condominium syndicates succeed.
- Building assessments: Our team, who are all members of Quebec’s Order of Engineers, conducts comprehensive inspections to assess the condition of common areas and identify required repairs or upgrades.
- Maintenance log development: We assist in preparing maintenance logs that comply with all the regulatory standards, including a detailed inventory and a 25-year maintenance plan.
- Reserve fund studies: Our experts analyze financial needs to ensure reserve funds are adequate, minimizing the risk of unexpected special assessments.
- Training and advice: We provide workshops and tailored advice to help co-owners and managers understand their responsibilities and implement effective management strategies.
Contacting Genispec ensures professional support to meet regulatory requirements while preserving the value and sustainability of condominiums.
Don’t let compliance become a problem
The implementation of Bill 16 and its regulations poses a challenge for condominium syndicates in Quebec. However, by taking proactive measures and consulting experienced professionals, syndicates can turn this requirement into an opportunity to enhance management practices and safeguard property value.
Non-compliance can lead to complications and penalties, so it’s essential to act now. Contact Genispec for a consultation and learn how we can support you in meeting these new requirements.
Let’s work together to ensure the long-term stability and value of your condominium.
Sources:
- Government of Quebec. (2024, 11th of September). Le gouvernement dépose un projet de règlement pour améliorer la gestion des copropriétés divises. Habitation.gouv.qc.ca. https://www.habitation.gouv.qc.ca/medias/communiques-de-presse/communique-de-presse/article/le-gouvernement-depose-un-projet-de-reglement-pour-ameliorer-la-gestion-des-coproprietes-divises-1
- Government of Quebec. (2024). Gazette officielle du Québec, Partie 2 – Lois et règlements. Publicationsduquebec.gouv.qc.ca. https://www.publicationsduquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fileadmin/gazette/pdf_encrypte/lois_reglements/2024F/84076.pdf