The rules for co-ownerships have changed

Invited to the program Le 15-18 on ICI Première (Radio-Canada), hosted by Annie Desrochers, Me Yves Joli-Cœur, distinguished lawyer and President of the Regroupement des gestionnaires et copropriétaires du Québec, provided insightful perspective on the recent evolution of the legal framework governing divided co-ownership in Quebec. Entitled The Rules for Condos Have Changed, the interview took place in the context of the coming into force of the regulation implementing Bill 16, a long-awaited reform that significantly modernizes condominium property management practices.

During the discussion, Me Joli-Cœur emphasized that these new provisions represent a key milestone in strengthening rigor, foresight, and transparency within co-ownership syndicates, while also offering better protection to current and future co-owners.

A major reform for syndicate governance

In the course of the interview, Me Joli-Cœur reviewed several obligations that have now become essential for co-ownership syndicates, including the implementation of a building maintenance logbook, the periodic completion of a contingency fund study, and the issuance of a certificate on the state of the co-ownership. These new tools aim to foster a culture of long-term planning, ensure more rigorous financial management, and promote better information sharing among all parties involved.

He noted that these measures respond to well-documented issues observed over the past several years, including chronic underfunding in certain buildings, the accumulation of major unplanned work, and the lack of reliable information when purchasing a unit. The reform therefore helps reduce financial and structural risks, while contributing to preserving the value of shared real estate assets.

While these changes may raise questions or require adjustments to current practices, Me Joli-Cœur reminded listeners that they are, above all, an investment in the sustainability and sound management of Quebec co-ownership properties.

A transition period focused on education and accountability

The interview also highlighted the importance of the current transition period. Ensuring that directors, managers, and co-owners understand and adopt the new rules is essential for their effective implementation. Me Joli-Cœur stressed that these obligations should not be viewed as mere administrative formalities, but rather as practical levers to prevent crises, protect co-owners’ investments, and ensure the long-term viability of buildings.

In this spirit, he reaffirmed the central role of information, training, and support, priorities that align directly with the mission of the RGCQ. Equipping stakeholders remains one of the key factors in successfully modernizing the sector.

An informative interview for all co-ownership stakeholders

This Radio-Canada appearance is a valuable resource for anyone involved in co-ownership, whether co-owners, directors, property managers, or industry professionals. It helps clarify the objectives of the reform, the concrete changes it introduces, and the best practices to adopt in order to comply.

At a time when co-ownership is taking an increasingly prominent place in Quebec’s residential landscape, this type of public communication helps demystify the new requirements and supports a smooth transition toward syndicates that are better structured, more transparent, and clearly focused on the future.

Listen to the full interview:
The rules for co-ownerships have changed, interview with Me Yves Joli-Cœur on Le 15-18, ICI Première.