If you own, or are thinking about buying, a condo or townhouse in Victoria, you’ll hear about Strata Law and the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT). They sound technical, but the basics are straightforward.
What is Strata Law?
Strata Law comes from B.C.’s Strata Property Act. It sets the rules for how condo and townhouse communities are managed. This includes:
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-Bylaws and strata rules
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-Monthly fees and budgets
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-Repairs and maintenance
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-The powers of your strata council
When you buy into a strata, you own your unit but also share responsibility for common spaces like hallways, roofs, and parking. You also agree to follow the strata’s bylaws.
What is the CRT?
The Civil Resolution Tribunal is Canada’s first online tribunal. Its job is to help owners and stratas settle disputes without going to court. Because it’s online, the process is faster, less formal, and more affordable.
The CRT handles issues like:
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Disputes over bylaws and fines
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Unpaid fees
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Repairs and maintenance
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Access to strata records
How Does It Work?
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Start online: You file your case on the CRT’s website.
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Talk it out: The system encourages both sides to try reaching an agreement.
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Facilitation: A CRT staff member may step in to help.
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Decision: If no deal is reached, a tribunal member issues a binding decision.
A Local Example
In Victoria, one condo owner challenged a $150 move-in fee. The CRT ruled in his favour, saying the fee was unfair since the strata couldn’t prove it offered extra services during the move. The decision saved the owner money and set a fair precedent. (Victoria News)
What to Expect
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User-friendly: Everything happens online.
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Affordable: Much cheaper than hiring a lawyer.
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Quicker results: Cases often wrap up faster than traditional court.
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Legally binding: Decisions carry real weight and can be enforced.
Strata living is convenient, but disputes happen. The CRT gives Victoria owners a fair, affordable, and effective way to solve problems without the stress of court.