Important Update for Condo Owners

Advice November 8, 2021

Coming into effect on January 1st, 2022, the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services has increased the jurisdiction of the Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT) allowing for an increased range of service.

What is the Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT)?

The Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT) is an online tribunal, or court of law, designed specifically to handle potential complaints and claims with a condominium corporation. This was designed to create a more convenient system for handling claims, while also providing a more affordable option. Currently, the CAT handles the following types of disputes; Condominium Records, Pets and Animals, Vehicles, Parking and Storage, and Settlement Agreements. For further information on the tribunal process handled by the CAT, the Condominium Authority of Ontario has published an information guide which can be accessed here, The CAT Process.

What Changes Will Occur?

As mentioned above, the CAT process is expanding their jurisdiction, as granted by the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. As per the new expansion of services, the CAT will now additionally include settling disputes about unreasonable nuisances, annoyances, or disruptions. These include issues regarding noise, odour, light, vibrations, smoke and vapour. Involved in these additional areas of service, the CAT will now resolve disputes within condominium corporations regarding the documentation involved in these nuisances, as well as determining reasonable compensation or indemnification related to these disputes. For additional information regarding the new changes coming into effect on January 1st, 2022, the Condominium Authority of Ontario published an information description which can be accessed here, CAT Jurisdiction and Expansion.

Still unsure about this update? Or have other questions about Condominiums? Contact us by email, text, or call and we can help!