How does a condo board (syndicat) work in Quebec?
A condo board (syndicat de copropriété) is a legal entity automatically created when a declaration of co-ownership is registered. It represents all unit owners, manages common areas, collects condo fees, and enforces building rules. Its governance rests on a board of directors elected at the annual general meeting.
What is a condo board (syndicat) in Quebec?
A syndicat de copropriété is a legal person automatically created when a declaration of co-ownership is published. It represents all unit owners collectively and is responsible for administering common areas, preserving the building, and enforcing the by-laws. The syndicat is not optional: it is mandatory whenever a building is divided into private and common portions.
What are the legal obligations of a condo board?
Since the Civil Code reforms under Law 16 (2020) and the reserve fund rules of Law 141 (2022), condo board obligations have significantly increased. Boards must now commission a reserve fund study every five years, maintain an up-to-date maintenance log (carnet d'entretien), and disclose financial statements to any owner upon request.
Self-managed vs. professionally managed: what's the difference?
Self-management works for small buildings (under 6 units) where owners have the time and skills. As complexity grows — Law 141 compliance, conflict resolution, major repairs — hiring a professional condo management team becomes more cost-effective than managing everything on a volunteer basis.