Welcome to Condo's Corner!

Brought to you by Daulton Read, President of Read Property Management

Get ready for a weekly dive into condo living like never before with Condo’s Corner! Speaking from my perspective as a Condominium Manager, my goal is to entertain and provide valuable management insights and stories that can help you live your condo life a bit better—all with a little bit of wit, charm, and practicality.

Pet Policies in Condos: Understanding the Rules Before You Move In

If you’ve ever tried moving into a condo with your furry (or feathered) friend, you’ve probably noticed - no two condo buildings are alike when it comes to pet rules. Some are wide open to pets of all shapes and sizes. Others? Let’s just say your goldfish might be the only one that qualifies.

As condominium living continues to grow across Ontario, it’s more important than ever for owners, tenants, and prospective buyers to understand how pet policies work and what they really mean in day-to-day living.

At Read Property Management, we love pets and the joy they bring to homes. But we also know that balancing pet ownership with community living takes thoughtful rules, fair enforcement, and good communication.

Condo Pet Rules 101

Every condominium corporation has a set of governing documents, its declaration, by-laws, and rules, which outline what’s allowed and what isn’t. Pet rules are often nestled among other everyday guidelines like visitor parking, noise, and amenity use.

Typical pet provisions may include:

• The type of animals allowed (dogs, cats, birds, fish, etc.)

• The number of pets permitted (often 1–2 per suite)

• The size or weight limit (commonly 25–50 lbs.)

• Requirements for leashing, carrying, and cleaning up in common areas

For example, a typical clause might read:

“No animals other than domestic pets with a maximum weight of 50 lbs. shall be permitted. Pets must be leashed or carried in the common elements. Any pet deemed a nuisance or interference with the enjoyment of others must be removed within two weeks of written notice.”

Whether you’re an owner, tenant, director, or visitor, these rules apply equally.

When Rules Meet Rights: Human Rights Code Exceptions

Sometimes, the rules bend and rightly so. The Ontario Human Rights Code overrides the Condominium Act when it comes to accommodation for people with disabilities.

That means service animals (such as guide dogs) and emotional support animals prescribed by a healthcare provider must be permitted, even if the building has weight or breed restrictions.

Condo corporations are required to make reasonable accommodations so residents can live comfortably and safely. In these cases, documentation from a qualified professional usually supports the need for the animal.

Enforcement and “Grandfathering”

Condominiums must consistently enforce their pet rules. If a corporation ignores violations over a long period, residents may successfully argue that enforcement rights have been waived, allowing their pet to stay under “grandfathering.”

This is why consistency is so important. As managers, we always advise boards to review and apply their rules fairly, transparently, and in writing, avoiding one-off decisions that create confusion later.

The Future of Pet-Friendly Condos

Good news! The tide is turning. Many new condominium developments are now embracing pets rather than restricting them. You’ll find buildings with:

• Dedicated dog runs or fenced green spaces

• Pet-friendly amenities integrated into community design

Developers have realized that pets aren’t just companions, but they’re part of the family. As more residents prioritize pet-friendly living, condos that welcome responsible pet ownership often see stronger resale demand and higher owner satisfaction.

Tips for Pet Owners Navigating Condo Living

A little preparation goes a long way. Here are our top tips for living with pets (and keeping tails wagging):

✅ Do

• Read your condo’s declaration and rules before moving in or adopting a pet.

• Leash your pet in all common areas, and keep retractable leashes short.

• Clean up immediately after your pet. (Nothing frustrates neighbours faster than forgotten waste)

• Train your pet for condo living. Barking, scratching, and jumping can easily disturb others.

• Be transparent with management about your pet’s details and any updates.

🚫 Don’t

• Assume your pet is allowed everywhere - gyms, pools, and rooftops are often pet-free zones.

• Ignore requests for more information, complaints or warnings - unresolved issues can lead to legal notices or removal.

• Let pets roam balconies unattended - this is a safety and noise issue.

Read Property Management’s Approach

At Read Property Management, we believe pet policies should strike a balance between compassion and compliance.

We help corporations:

• Craft clear, enforceable pet rules that reflect the community’s values

• Educate owners through transparent communication

• Manage disputes with fairness and professionalism

• Support inclusivity for service and support animals

A well-written rule set, applied consistently, keeps everyone happier —from the four-legged residents to their two-legged neighbours.

Pets bring warmth and personality to the home for many, but peaceful cohabitation comes from understanding and respect. Whether you’re moving in with a dog, cat, or something a little more exotic, knowing the rules upfront ensures everyone enjoys a peaceful home and avoids messy headaches.

At Read Property Management, we’re here to help boards and owners find that balance - one paw at a time.

Got a condo tale to tell or burning questions about condo living? Don't be shy—share 'em with me! Whether it's a funny story, a management mystery, a celebratory story, or just a nightmare, we're all ears. All you need to do is reply to this email so we can keep the content coming.

Make sure to share this newsletter with your friends, family, and, more importantly - that neighbour who could learn a few things!