What Is a Condominium Under Alberta Law?

A condominium, or condo, is a unique form of property ownership in Alberta that blends private unit ownership with shared community spaces. Unlike owning a detached home, where you own both the building and land outright, condo ownership gives you title to your individual unit and shared ownership of the building’s common property. These shared assets—hallways, lobbies, elevators, fitness rooms—are governed by a Condominium Corporation, which oversees management, maintenance, and community rules.

In Alberta, condominiums are regulated by two major legal frameworks:

• The Condominium Property Act (R.S.A. 2000, c. C-22)

• The Alberta Condominium Property Regulation (Alta Reg 168/2000)

Together, these guide how condos are created, operated, and governed across the province.

Bare Land vs. Conventional: Understanding the Two Types of Condos

When exploring condo ownership in Alberta, it’s critical to understand the two primary types:

🟫 Bare Land Condominium

• Each unit owner owns the land itself and is responsible for any structures on that land.

• Typically seen in townhouse or detached-style developments.

• Owners often manage more of the maintenance independently (e.g., driveways, siding).

⬜ Conventional Condominium

• Owners hold title to the interior space of their unit (walls inward).

• Everything outside—walls, roof, landscape—is managed by the condo corporation.

• Common in high-rise buildings or mid-density complexes

How Condos Differ from Detached Homes

Unlike standalone properties, condo living requires collaboration. Here are key differences:

If you’re transitioning from a single-family home, the expectation shift is important. Condo living means shared decision-making and communal financial responsibilities.

Key Rights and Responsibilities of Condo Owners in Alberta

Under the Condominium Property Act, owners enjoy specific protections and duties. Let’s explore them.

✅ Rights of a Condo Owner

• Vote on key decisions (e.g., budgets, board elections, bylaw changes)

• Participate in board meetings

• Access condo documents, including financial statements and meeting minutes

• Run for board positions

• Request maintenance of common areas

💸 Responsibilities

• Pay monthly condo fees (based on Unit Factor)

• Contribute to special assessments if passed by the board

• Follow the condo’s bylaws and rules

• Maintain the interior of your unit

Understanding Unit Factors 

Every condo unit in Alberta is assigned a Unit Factor—a percentage that determines:

• Your ownership share

• Your voting power

• Your financial contribution to common expenses

For example, if your Unit Factor is 7.50 out of a total 1000, you own 0.75% of the common property and pay 0.75% of shared costs. Unit Factors are assigned in the Condominium Plan and recorded at Alberta Land Titles.

Introduction to Condo Bylaws

Each Condominium Corporation operates under its own bylaws, which outline:

• Governance rules

• Pet policies

• Noise restrictions

• Parking regulations

• Rental permissions

• Dispute resolution

You are legally obligated to follow these bylaws. Before purchasing a condo, always review the bylaws carefully—especially if you plan to rent, renovate, or share your unit.

Violating bylaws can lead to fines or legal action, so knowledge is power.

Disputes and Conflict Resolution

Living in a condo community may result in disagreements. Alberta offers a progressive approach:

1. Internal Board Process

Many boards offer informal or formal grievance procedures.

2. Condominium Dispute Resolution Tribunal (CDRT)

This online tribunal allows condo owners and boards to settle disputes without going to court.

3. Court Action

As a last resort, legal proceedings can be initiated—but they are costly and time-intensive.

Final Thoughts: Making Informed Condo Decisions

Condominium ownership in Alberta provides lifestyle benefits—community, convenience, and shared responsibility—but also legal and financial complexity. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or real estate professional, understanding the basics of “what is a condominium in Alberta” gives you the foundation for confident decision-making.

At HomeHealth Solutions, we simplify condo documents, interpret bylaws, and provide expert document reviews that empower you to make informed real estate decisions.

Book Your Condo Document Review

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Sources:

• Alberta Condominium Property Act

• Alberta Condominium Regulation