Quick Answer
BC strata owners request repairs to common property by informing their strata council or property manager, usually in writing with clear details. The strata council decides if the repair falls under common property and prioritizes it based on urgency, budget, and rules. Always keep records of your request and follow up if you don’t hear back within a reasonable time.
How do you know if a repair is strata’s responsibility?
A repair is typically strata’s responsibility if it involves common property—like hallways, elevators, roofs, or building exterior—rather than your individual unit. The definition of common property is set by the Strata Property Act and your building’s strata plan, but can vary for things like balconies, windows, or pipes. If you’re unsure, check your strata’s bylaws or ask your strata manager for clarification. For specific guidance in your city, such as Vancouver or Surrey, consult your strata plan and official documents.
What’s the best way to submit a repair request?
Most BC strata corporations require repair requests to be submitted in writing—by email or through an online portal—detailing the location, problem, and when you noticed it. This paper trail helps ensure accountability and proper follow-up. Attach photos if possible, especially for damage or safety issues. Always direct your request to the strata manager or council as specified in your building’s communication guidelines. If you don’t have their contact information, it’s typically listed in meeting minutes or posted in common areas.
What happens after you submit a request?
The strata council or property manager will review your request to confirm if it’s a common property issue and determine the priority level. Urgent repairs—like water leaks or broken elevators—are usually addressed fast, while less critical maintenance can take longer to schedule. The council may vote on larger expenditures or seek quotes from contractors. Routine updates on repair requests should be provided, but timelines can vary, especially if costs are high or budgets are tight. If you’re interested in how repairs are prioritized, reading How to Read Strata Council Meeting Minutes Like an Informed Owner can offer insight.
How can you follow up—and what if nothing happens?
If you don’t get a response within a week or two for non-urgent repairs, send a polite follow-up email referencing your original request. For urgent issues, escalate to the strata manager or council chair. If repairs are repeatedly delayed or denied without explanation, owners can formally request the issue be added to the next council meeting agenda or raise it at an AGM. Document all correspondence in case you need to take the matter further through the Civil Resolution Tribunal or a legal professional.
Are there limits to what strata must repair?
Strata corporations must repair and maintain common property, but their obligations can be shaped by bylaws, budgets, and priorities. Some items—like upgrades or defects not covered under warranty—may not be addressed immediately if funds are low or if they fall into a "betterment" category rather than basic repairs. The annual budget and depreciation report can show what’s been planned and funded. If you want a deeper understanding of how these decisions are made, Understanding Your Strata’s Annual Budget: What Every Owner Should Pay Attention To is a good resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for repairs inside my unit in a BC strata?
Repairs inside your unit are usually your responsibility unless the issue stems from common property (like a failing roof causing inside damage). The strata's obligation generally stops at the boundary of common property as defined in your strata plan and bylaws.
How quickly must a strata repair be completed?
There is no universal deadline for repairs; timelines depend on urgency, budget, and the nature of the problem. Emergency repairs are prioritized, but always verify current expectations with your strata council or manager.
Can I arrange my own repairs for common property if strata delays?
Owners should not arrange repairs to common property without written authorization from the strata, as this can create liability and insurance issues. Always follow the official process and escalate through council if necessary.
What if my request is ignored by council or management?
If your repair request goes unanswered, document your attempts and consider escalating at a council meeting or AGM. As a last resort, you may seek resolution through the BC Civil Resolution Tribunal.
Are all repairs covered by the strata’s insurance?
Strata insurance usually covers repairs to common property after a claim, but deductibles and exclusion clauses apply. Owners should review both the strata’s policy and their own unit insurance to understand coverage.
Conclusion
Requesting repairs as a BC strata owner is straightforward when you know the process and your building’s rules. Always document your requests, clarify what falls under common property, and follow up if things stall. For deeper insights into your strata’s records or to analyze council decisions and repair history, you can always try SearchStrata free to get more transparency and peace of mind.
