Every Condominium is governed by its own unique by-laws and rules. These are necessary to ensure that Condominiums are properly operated and maintained, and to define the rights and obligations of individual owners. By-laws are part of the registered documents (with the declaration and description) and are more difficult to change, whereas rules tend to be at the discretion of the board of directors and can be changed more easily.
With respect to by-laws regarding the individual owners, Condominiums may have restrictions regarding the number of occupants per unit, pets, noise, parking, and when certain amenities may be used.
Many Condominiums have strict rules concerning the alteration of the unit space or its appearance. Additionally, you may have to get permission from the Condominium’s Board of Directors before you do the following: change exterior fixtures, install a satellite dish, add a new gazebo, install air conditioning units in the windows, and in particular, make changes that may affect the Condominium’s structure or safety.
Individual Condominium owners may be obliged to attend Condominium meetings or serve on Condominium boards or committees. All Condominiums have requirements for the payment of monthly Condominium fees. There will also be mandatory charges for a reserve fund for unforeseen major repairs to the Condominium common elements.