In this buyer’s market for condominiums, the Status Certificate has become increasingly important for helping a purchaser make an informed decision. First-time home buyers are scrutinizing the Status Certificate to see if buying that larger, multi-bedroom condominium unit in an older building is a better choice than a modern, smaller unit in a newer building with less of a financial history.

A recent successful appeal by Shibley Righton’s own Megan Mackey and Nasrudin Mumin has sent a clear message to newly constructed condominiums across Ontario: when a turnover board terminates a developer‑signed property management contract under section 111 of the Condominium Act, 1998 (the “Act”), the contract is terminated, full stop. No lingering penalties. No damages for termination.

When a dispute arises in a condominium setting, the first and most important step is choosing the right place to resolve it. In Ontario, condominium disputes can go to: The courts (Superior Court or Small Claims Court); The Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT); or Mediation and arbitration under section 132 of the Condominium Act, 1998. Knowing which forum has the proper authority to resolve the dispute will avoid delays, extra costs, and legal mistakes.