Condominiums are more and more common to us Torontonians. As I have written about before, we see cranes in every direction, so we all know there are even more condo buildings on the way. This is a newer way of Toronto living, something that was not very common 15 years ago. But, since the demand for more living spaces it has necessitated the building spree.
Moving into a condo is very different than a house. Here is a general outline of the things you need to know:
- You must book an elevator for moving day. There is no way around this. Unlike moving into a house you cannot come and go as you please with larger items as this interferes with the other occupants. In order to book the elevator you require enough notice, a damage deposit and a contract detailing the repair process if there is any damage caused during your booking. Keep in mind that most elevators can only be booked either in the morning or afternoon of a weekday, there are some allowances for Saturday morning use.
- Set up your utilities in advance. Do your best to give 15+ days notice, in some cases you need 30 days. Gone are the days of living without the Internet! (You don’t want to use your phone’s data for the few days after possession, be sure to book your internet service in advance)
- White noise makers, this isn’t necessary for all buildings however I have found that the newer builds have more sound transference between the units. So, if you are sensitive to outside noise (remember you are now likely living on a busy major Toronto street so cars and TTC streetcars are factors let alone your neighbours). I would recommend getting either a fan or something similar to a white noise machine that parents use for their children.
- Pets: you now live under the rules of the condo corporation. Let’s assume that you did your pet due diligence before purchasing – so your pet is permitted. Now that you have moved in both noise and damage are factors. If your dog, for example, barks to the point of annoyance the condo board has the right to demand that the pet be removed. I haven’t seen this happen often but it is not unheard of.
- Be sure that your keys and fobs have been counted and marked, you don’t want past fobs to still be activated now that you live in this condo – the property manager is responsible for this.
Condo living can be wonderful. It’s just a “newer” way of living for Toronto. If you want to know more about condo living and whether it’s right for you please shoot me a note!
