New condo-living organization enters the scene in Ontario

Condominium Authority of Ontario created in response to the growing popularity of this asset class in the province

New condo-living organization enters the scene in Ontario
On September 1, the Condominium Authority of Ontario (CAO) has officially introduced itself as the first organization specifically intended to support condominium living across the province.

The group “will play a pivotal role in addressing the growing needs of condo communities in Ontario so that people who call a condo their home can enjoy peace of mind,” according to Tracy MacCharles, Minister of Government and Consumer Services. “I would like to thank the Condominium Authority of Ontario's board and team for their efforts in helping to build more sustainable communities across our province now, and for years to come.”

Among others, the administrative authority’s tasks will be providing information about condo ownership and condo living information (including a guide for condo buyers), as well as free online training for condo directors to ensure that condo boards run smoothly.

Also, the organization will be responsible for a new online dispute resolution tribunal “that will include online guided negotiation, mediation and adjudication to help resolve issues and settle disputes,” along with self-help tools for those who have questions or want to resolve disputes on their own.

CAO’s initial version of the online dispute resolution services is slated to be launched on November 1.

“As the first designated authority for the condominium sector in Ontario, the CAO is focused on supporting condo living,” CAO chair Tom Wright said. “As part of the government’s consumer protection initiative, we will assist condo owners and residents by providing timely, relevant information and resources to foster healthier condo communities as more and more residents choose condominiums as their homes.”


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