Condo Renovation Guide: Rules, Approvals, and Tips

Renovating a condo is different from renovating a house. You share walls, systems, and structural elements with neighbors — and the condo corporation has rules.

What Requires Board Approval?

• Any modification to common elements (plumbing, electrical, exterior walls)
• Changes to load-bearing walls
• Flooring replacement (soundproofing requirements)
• Bathroom and kitchen renovations (plumbing)
• Balcony modifications
• Window or door replacement
• HVAC modifications

What Usually Doesn't Require Approval?

• Painting (interior walls only)
• Installing shelves or cabinets (non-structural)
• Replacing light fixtures
• Installing new appliances (same location)
• Minor cosmetic updates

Step 1: Review Your Bylaws

• Check what requires approval
• Understand restrictions and requirements
• Note any prohibited changes

Step 2: Submit a Renovation Request

• Provide detailed plans
• Include contractor information
• Submit to property management
• Include timeline and scope

Step 3: Get Written Approval

• Never start without written board approval
• Understand conditions imposed
• Pay any required deposits

Step 4: Complete Renovation

• Follow approved plans
• Use licensed contractors
• Respect building hours and noise rules
• Clean up daily

Renovation Deposits

• Typically $500-$2,000
• Refundable upon inspection
• Covers damage to common areas

Insurance Requirements

• Contractors must have liability insurance
• Minimum $2 million coverage typical
• Proof of WSIB clearance (Ontario)
• Additional insured endorsement

Working Hours

• Typically Monday-Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
• Saturday: 8 AM - 1 PM
• Sunday and holidays: No work

Noise Restrictions

• Power tools during permitted hours only
• No excessive noise
• Notify neighbors before starting

Sound Transmission Requirements

• Most condos require minimum STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings
• Typically STC 55-60 for floors
• May require acoustic underlayment
• Hardwood flooring often restricted above units

Installation Requirements

• Use approved underlayment
• Follow manufacturer specifications
• Maintain expansion gaps
• Professional installation recommended

Considerations

• Shared plumbing stacks (water shut-off coordination)
• Electrical panel capacity
• Permits may be required
• Must use licensed trades

Restrictions

• Cannot alter exterior appearance
• No permanent structures
• Planters may be restricted
• Screening or privacy panels require approval
• Satellite dishes usually prohibited

Ontario

• Condominium Act requires board approval for modifications
• Standardized renovation agreements common
• CAT can resolve disputes

British Columbia

• Strata bylaws govern renovations
• Form B may list restrictions
• CRT handles disputes

Alberta

• Condominium Property Act governs
• Board approval for structural changes
• Less prescriptive than ON/BC

1. Start early: Approval can take 2-6 weeks
2. Be detailed: Provide complete plans
3. Communicate: Notify neighbors
4. Use professionals: Licensed contractors only
5. Follow rules: Don't deviate from approved plans
6. Document: Keep before/after photos
7. Schedule inspections: Get deposit back

Condo renovations require planning, approval, and compliance with corporation rules. Always get written approval before starting. For renovation budgeting, use our Calculators. The AI Advisor can answer renovation questions, and our Q&A Community has renovation discussions.

This guide is for educational purposes only.