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Navigating Alberta Condo Boards: Basics for Owners & Residents

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Condominium living is common across Alberta, especially in growing urban centres like Calgary. But with shared ownership comes the need for structured governance. This article explains how condominium corporations and boards operate in Alberta, based on the Condominium Property Act, the Condominium Property Regulation, and relevant municipal rules in Calgary. 

1. Legal Foundation

Condominiums in Alberta are regulated by: 

  • The Condominium Property Act (CPA) 
  • The Condominium Property Regulation (AR 168/2000) 

 Official overview: alberta.ca/condominium-information 

These laws outline how condo corporations are created, managed, and dissolved. Since December 1, 2021, all condo management companies and individuals must be licensed by the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA): reca.ca 

2. What Is a Condominium Corporation?

A condominium corporation forms automatically when a developer registers a condominium plan with Alberta Land Titles. It becomes a legal entity responsible for managing the common property on behalf of all unit owners. 

The developer must disclose key details to buyers upfront, including: 

  • Unit factor allocations 
  • Operating and reserve fund budgets 
  • Any phased development plans 

 More info: RECA – Condominium Buyer Guide (PDF) 

3. The Role of the Condo Board

Once the first annual general meeting is held, the owners elect a board to manage the property. Responsibilities include: 

  • Managing the operating and reserve fund 
  • Enforcing bylaws and rules 
  • Hiring contractors and service providers 
  • Communicating with owners 
  • Preparing financial reports and budgets 

Board members must act honestly, avoid conflicts of interest, and comply with all laws and the corporation’s bylaws. Mismanagement can lead to legal consequences. Details: condolawalberta.ca 

4. Bylaws and Rules: What's the Difference?

Bylaws are formal, legal documents that govern how the corporation operates. They cover: 

  • Board elections 
  • Voting rights 
  • Maintenance responsibilities 
  • Contributions and penalties 

To change bylaws, 75% of unit owners (by unit factors) must vote in favour, and the new bylaw must be registered with Land Titles. 

Rules, by contrast, are everyday policies created by the board. Examples include pet restrictions, noise limits, or parking rules. These must be: 

  • Reasonable 
  • Communicated in writing to all owners and residents 

 Rules not delivered in writing before April 1, 2020, are no longer valid. Source: condolawalberta.ca 

5. Reserve Fund Requirements

Condominium corporations in Alberta must maintain a reserve fund to cover major repairs and replacements—roofing, elevators, windows, etc. 

Key requirements: 

  • A reserve fund study must be done within two years of registration, and updated at least every 5 years. 
  • The board must approve a reserve fund plan and deliver a summary to owners. 
  • Funds must be held in a separate account and used only for long-term capital repairs. 

Emergency withdrawals are allowed but must be repaid within two years. See full details in the Condominium Property Regulation (Part 3) 

6. Calgary-Specific Requirements

In Calgary, developers must apply for a condominium permit through the planning authority before unit titles can be issued. 

 More: calgary.ca – Condo Permits 

In addition: 

  • Property taxes are assessed per titled unit (including parking stalls and storage) 
  • Calgary’s Municipal Government Act governs how municipal services, planning, and taxation intersect with condo ownership 

7. Best Practices for Boards

To comply with legislation and promote a healthy condo environment, boards should: 

  • Communicate clearly and frequently with owners 
  • Keep bylaws and rules updated and enforce them fairly 
  • Deliver timely budgets, meeting minutes, and reserve fund reports 
  • Use RECA-licensed managers 
  • Document all board decisions 

Resources: condolawalberta.ca, RECA, alberta.ca 

At UrbanTec, we bring structure, clarity, and care to every condominium we manage. Our approach blends deep knowledge of Alberta’s legal requirements with hands-on experience managing diverse condominium communities in Calgary. From board guidance to day-to-day operations and financial stewardship, we help boards stay compliant and owners feel confident.  

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